Valve module and filter

ABSTRACT

A filter for an apparatus for delivering a flow of gas, the filter comprising: a filter body, wherein the filter body has a main compartment and a sub-compartment at least partly within the main compartment, wherein the main compartment is in fluid communication with a main compartment gases inlet and the sub-compartment is in fluid communication with a sub-compartment gases inlet; and a filter medium associated with both the main compartment and the sub-compartment, and that is arranged to filter gases in, or exiting, the main compartment and the sub-compartment.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a valve module and filter for use in anapparatus for delivering a flow of gas.

BACKGROUND ART

Breathing assistance apparatuses are used in various environments suchas hospital, medical facility, residential care, or home environments todeliver a flow of gas to users or patients.

SUMMARY

The applicant has identified potential difficulties in replacing valvesor servicing other components In breathing assistance apparatuses, whichtypically require substantial disassembly of the housing of thebreathing assistance apparatus which risks compromising seals of theapparatus. That could potentially render the apparatus susceptible toliquid, gas, or solid particulate ingress. If oxygen was to ingress intothe apparatus, it may be a safety risk. If liquid was to ingress intothe apparatus, it could reduce dielectric strength of electroniccomponents, such as by short-circuit or corrosion. Ingress of solidparticulates could be problematic if the solid particulates enter intothe gas flow path.

The applicant has also identified potential difficulties in positioningapparatuses with connected gases lines, which gases lines may preventthe apparatus from being positioned correctly and/or which may bedamaged during the positioning of the apparatus.

The applicant has also identified potential issues with gas entrainmentin filters that enable gases to mix in the filter and/or that enablegases to pass back through gases inlets.

The applicant has also identified pressure drops in apparatuses thatutilise filters and valves, caused by flow resistance from directionchanges, restrictions, convergences, divergences, filter mediums, anddifferent frictional characteristics acting on gases passing throughcomponents caused by different material use for different components.

Accordingly, it would be desirable to provide a valve module that isreadily replaceable.

Additionally or alternatively, it would be desirable to provide anapparatus with a gases inlet that can be selectively positioned toenable easy positioning of the apparatus.

Additionally or alternatively, it would be desirable to provide a filterthat assists with entrainment of gas in an apparatus for delivering aflow of gas.

Additionally or alternatively, it would be desirable to provide a valvemodule or a filter that minimises pressure drop.

It is an object of one or more of the disclosed embodiments to provide afilter, a valve module, or an apparatus for delivering a flow of gasthat goes at least some way toward achieving one of the above desirableoutcomes, or that at least provides the public or a medical professionalwith a useful choice.

Thus, in accordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of atleast one of the embodiments disclosed herein, a valve module for anapparatus for delivering a flow of gas is disclosed, the valve modulecomprising: a filter for an apparatus for delivering a flow of gas, thefilter comprising: a filter body, wherein the filter body has a maincompartment and a sub-compartment at least partly within the maincompartment, wherein the main compartment is in fluid communication witha main compartment gases inlet and the sub-compartment is In fluidcommunication with a sub-compartment gases inlet; and a filter mediumassociated with both the main compartment and the sub-compartment, andthat is arranged to filter gases In, or exiting, the main compartmentand the sub-compartment.

In some configurations, the filter is a filter module that is removablyand sealably engageable with a housing of an apparatus for delivering aflow of gas.

In some configurations, the filter comprising seal(s) about an externalperiphery of the filter to sealingly engage the filter in the housing ofthe apparatus.

In some configurations, the seal(s) comprise(s) O-ring(s) or integrallyformed ‘wiper’ seal(s).

In some configurations, the main compartment is defined by at least onemain compartment wall bounding a main compartment volume.

In some configurations, the sub-compartment is defined by at least onesub-compartment wall bounding a sub-compartment volume at least partlywithin the main compartment volume.

In some configurations, the filter comprising a second sub-compartmentat least partly within the main compartment, wherein the secondsub-compartment is arranged to receive gas from a second sub-compartmentgases inlet.

In some configurations, the filter medium comprises substantially a samematerial as the filter body.

In some configurations, the filter body comprises polypropylene materialor other suitable polymeric material, and wherein the filter mediumcomprises spun polypropylene, other suitable polymeric or syntheticmaterial(s), and/or wool fibres.

In some configurations, the filter medium is ultrasonically welded tothe at least one main compartment wall and the at least onesub-compartment wall.

In some configurations, the at least one main compartment wall and theat least one sub-compartment wall are shaped to provide a largeultrasonic weld area.

In some configurations, the main compartment is substantiallyrectangular in profile.

In some configurations, the filter comprises a filter top panel that isattached or attachable to the filter body.

In some configurations, the filter top panel is attachable to the filterbody by way of a snap fit.

In some configurations, the filter top panel is arranged to besubstantially flush with a housing of the apparatus for delivering aflow of gas, when the filter is engaged with the housing.

In some configurations, the filter top panel comprises a handlingfeature to aid in insertion and/or removal of the filter from a housingof the apparatus for delivering a flow of gas.

In some configurations, the filter body comprises a gas supply lineconnector in fluid communication with the sub-compartment.

In some configurations, gas supply line connector comprises a gas supplyline retention feature at or adjacent an upper end of the gas supplyline connector.

In some configurations, the filter top panel comprises an opening thatexposes and protectively surrounds the gas supply line connector.

In some configurations, the filter comprises a second sub-compartment atleast partly within the main compartment, wherein the secondsub-compartment is arranged to receive gas from a second sub-compartmentgases inlet, and wherein a duct is provided in fluid communication withthe second sub-compartment.

In some configurations, the duct is Integrally formed with the filterbody or is separately formed from the filter body.

Additionally, in accordance with certain features, aspects andadvantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, a filterfor an apparatus for delivering a flow of gas is disclosed, the filtercomprising: a filter body, wherein the filter body has a maincompartment that is In fluid communication with a main compartment gasesinlet and a main compartment gases outlet, wherein the main compartmentgases outlet is substantially planar and is spanned by a filter medium,and wherein the main compartment gases inlet and main compartment gasesoutlet are arranged such that a gas flow direction through the inlet isoffset from a gas flow direction through the outlet.

In some configurations, the gas flow direction through the maincompartment gases inlet is at an angle of about 30° to about 150°relative to the gas flow direction through the main compartment gasesoutlet.

In some configurations, the gas flow direction through the maincompartment gases inlet is at an angle of about 60° to 120° to the gasflow direction through the main compartment gases outlet.

In some configurations, the gas flow direction through the maincompartment gases inlet is substantially perpendicular to the gas flowdirection through the main compartment gases outlet.

In some configurations, the main compartment is substantiallyrectangular in profile.

In some configurations, at least a portion of the main compartmenttapers inwardly such that a portion of the main compartment spacedfurther from the main compartment gases inlet has a smaller dimensionthan a portion of the main compartment adjacent the main compartmentgases inlet.

In some configurations, at least a portion of the main compartmenttapers outwardly such that a portion of the main compartment spacedfurther from the main compartment gases inlet has a larger dimensionthan a portion of the main compartment adjacent the main compartmentgases inlet.

In some configurations, the filter body comprises a sub-compartment atleast partly within the main compartment and that is In fluidcommunication with a sub-compartment gases inlet.

In some configurations, the sub-compartment comprises a sub-compartmentgases outlet, and wherein the filter medium spans the sub-compartmentgases outlet.

In some configurations, the gas flow direction through thesub-compartment gases inlet is at an angle of about 30° to 150° to thegas flow direction through the sub-compartment gases outlet.

In some configurations, the gas flow direction through thesub-compartment gases inlet Is at an angle of about 60° to 120° to thegas flow direction through the sub-compartment gases outlet.

In some configurations, the gas flow direction through thesub-compartment gases inlet is substantially perpendicular to the gasflow direction through the sub-compartment gases outlet.

In some configurations, a ratio of the area of the sub-compartment gasesinlet to the sub-compartment gases outlet is between about 1:5 and about1:80, or is between about 1:1 and about 1:40, or is about 1:20.

In some configurations, at least a portion of the sub-compartment tapersinwardly.

In some configurations, the filter comprises a second sub-compartment atleast partly within the main compartment, wherein the secondsub-compartment is arranged to receive gas from a second sub-compartmentgases inlet.

In some configurations, the second sub-compartment comprises a secondsub-compartment gases outlet, and wherein the filter medium spans thesecond sub-compartment gases outlet.

In some configurations, the gas flow direction through the secondsub-compartment gases inlet is at an angle of about 30° to 150° to thegas flow direction through the sub-compartment gases outlet.

In some configurations, the gas flow direction through the secondsub-compartment gases inlet is at an angle of about 60° to 120° to thegas flow direction through the sub-compartment gases outlet.

In some configurations, the gas flow direction through the secondsub-compartment gases inlet is substantially perpendicular to the gasflow direction through the second sub-compartment gases outlet.

In some configurations, a ratio of the area of the secondsub-compartment gases inlet to the second sub-compartment gases outletis between about 1:5 and about 1:80, or is between about 1:10 and about1:40, or is between about 1:20 and about 1:25.

In some configurations, at least a portion of the second sub-compartmenttapers inwardly such that a portion of the second sub-compartment spacedfurther from the second sub-compartment gases inlet has a smallerdimension than a portion of the main compartment adjacent the secondsub-compartment gases inlet.

In some configurations, a ratio of the area of the main compartmentgases inlet to the area of the main compartment gases outlet is betweenabout 1:10 and about 1:40, or is between about 1:15 and about 1:30, oris between about 1:20 and about 1:25.

In some configurations, the filter comprises any one or more of thefeatures described above in relation to the first described aspect.

Additionally, in accordance with certain features, aspects andadvantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, anapparatus for delivering a flow of gas is disclosed, the apparatuscomprising: a filter body, the filter body having a compartment, acompartment filter medium associated with the compartment that isarranged to filter gases in, or exiting, the compartment; an outletfilter medium associated with a gases outlet, to prevent, or at leastsubstantially inhibit particulates from inadvertently entering thefilter from the outlet; wherein one of the filter compartment medium andthe outlet filter medium are downstream of the other of the filtercompartment medium and the outlet filter medium.

In some configurations, the outlet filter medium may be or comprise asintered metal filter. Examples of suitable sintered metals includecopper, bronze, or steel.

In some configurations, the apparatus comprises an O-ring associatedwith the outlet filter medium to seal the outlet filter. The O-ring maybe between the filter extension duct and the filter and/or manifoldoutlet. Other appropriate seals may be used, such as a grommet seal, ora face seal. Additionally, or alternatively, the filter extension ductcould seal with the manifold through an interference fit, or a tightclearance fit.

In some configurations, the filter could be sealed to the manifoldoutlet by an O-ring seal, a grommet seal, a face seal, and/or any othersuitable seal. Alternatively, the lower seal may not be present.

Additionally, in accordance with certain features, aspects andadvantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, anapparatus for delivering a flow of gas is disclosed, the apparatuscomprising: a housing with a gases outlet for delivering a flow of gasto a patient; and a first gases inlet, a second gases inlet, and anambient air inlet.

In some configurations, the apparatus comprises a filter to filter gasesthat have been received from the first gases inlet, the second gasesinlet, and the ambient air inlet.

In some configurations, the apparatus comprises a blower arranged toreceive gases from the filter and to deliver the gases to a gasesoutlet.

In some configurations, the apparatus comprises a flow control valvearranged to receive gas from the first gases inlet and to deliver thegas to the filter.

In some configurations, the apparatus comprises a valve module that isremovably engageable with the housing, wherein the valve modulecomprises the valve and a valve manifold to receive gas from the valve,wherein the valve manifold has a valve manifold gases outlet that isarranged to deliver the gas from the flow control valve to the filter.

In some configurations, the valve module comprises a valve carrier thatsubstantially contains and supports the valve and the valve manifold.

In some configurations, the ambient air inlet is provided in the valvecarrier.

In some configurations, the valve module is arranged to directly couplewith the filter to provide a gas flow path from the valve module to thefilter.

In some configurations, the first gases inlet is arranged to moverelative to the housing.

In some configurations, the filter comprises a filter body, wherein thefilter body has a main compartment, a first sub-compartment at leastpartly within the main compartment, and a second compartment at leastpartly within the main compartment, wherein the first gases inlet, thesecond gases inlet, and the ambient air inlet are each in fluidcommunication with a respective one of the main compartment, the firstsub-compartment, and the second sub-compartment.

In some configurations, the filter comprises a filter medium associatedwith all of the main compartment, the first sub-compartment, and thesecond sub-compartment, wherein the filter medium is arranged to filtergases in, or exiting, the main compartment, the first sub-compartment,and the second sub-compartment.

In some configurations, the filter comprises a main compartment gasesoutlet, a first sub-compartment gases outlet, and a secondsub-compartment gases outlet, and wherein the filter medium spans themain compartment gases outlet, the first sub-compartment gases outlet,and the second sub-compartment gases outlet.

In some configurations, the filter is removably engageable with thehousing.

In some configurations, the apparatus is a nasal high flow therapyapparatus.

Additionally, in accordance with certain features, aspects andadvantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, a valvemodule for an apparatus for delivering a flow of gas is disclosed, thevalve module comprising: a flow control valve, wherein the valve isarranged to control a flow of gas, an ambient air flow path passingthrough the valve module.

In some configurations, the ambient air flow path has an ambient airoutlet for delivering ambient air to other components of the apparatusfor delivering a flow of gas.

In some configurations, the ambient air outlet is adapted to deliverambient air to a filter module.

In some configurations, the ambient air flow path is adapted to deliverambient air such that it flows past one or more temperature sensors ofthe apparatus for delivering a flow of gas.

In some configurations, the ambient air flow path passes near oradjacent to the valve.

In some configurations, the valve module comprises a valve manifold witha valve manifold gases inlet and a valve manifold gases outlet.

In some configurations, the valve is sealingly engaged with the valvemanifold.

In some configurations, the valve is arranged to control a flow of gasfrom the valve manifold gases inlet to the valve manifold gases outlet.

In some configurations, the valve manifold has a shape that iscomplementary to the shape of the valve.

In some configurations, the valve manifold has a substantiallycylindrical body, and wherein the valve has a substantially cylindricalbody.

In some configurations, the valve manifold gases outlet is radiallylocated on the valve manifold.

In some configurations, the valve manifold valve manifold comprises aplurality of gases outlets that are radially located about the valvemanifold.

In some configurations, the valve module a valve carrier thatsubstantially contains and supports the valve and the valve manifold.

In some configurations, the valve carrier comprises supporting structureto support the valve and valve manifold.

In some configurations, the valve carrier comprises a speaker housingand an audio speaker located In the speaker housing.

In some configurations, the valve module comprises one or more sensorson or In the valve carrier. In some configurations, one or more sensorscomprises an ambient humidity sensor. In some configurations, the one ormore sensors comprises an ambient pressure sensor. In someconfigurations, one or more sensors comprises an ambient temperaturesensor.

In some configurations, the valve carrier comprises a first valvecarrier part and a second valve carrier part, wherein the valve andvalve manifold are secured in place at least partly between the firstvalve carrier part and the second valve carrier part.

In some configurations, the valve carrier comprises one or more guards.

In some configurations, the valve module comprises an electricalconnector to provide an electrical connection between the valve moduleand one or more of the other components of the apparatus for deliveringa flow of gas.

In some configurations, the electrical connector comprises a printedcircuit board edge connector or wires.

In some configurations, the electrical connector comprises a flexibleprinted circuit board.

In some configurations, the valve carrier comprises flow guidingstructure, wherein the flow guiding structure is arranged to direct gasflow from the valve manifold gases outlet(s) toward a filter when thevalve module is removably engaged with the housing.

In some configurations, the valve module comprises a connector with agases inlet, wherein the gases inlet of the connector is fluidlyconnectable to a gas supply line, and wherein the connector is arrangedto provide a fluid connection between the gas supply line and the gasesinlet of the valve manifold, and wherein the gases inlet is movablerelative to the valve manifold.

In some configurations, the connector is a swivel connector, wherein thegases inlet is oriented substantially transversely relative to alongitudinal axis of the valve manifold, and wherein the gases inlet ofthe swivel connector is arranged to rotate about a longitudinal axis ofthe valve manifold.

In some configurations, the connector is a swivel connector, wherein thegases inlet is oriented substantially transversely relative to alongitudinal axis of the valve manifold, and wherein the gases inlet ofthe swivel connector is arranged to rotate in substantially anydirection relative to the valve manifold via a ball and socketarrangement.

In some configurations, the gases inlet of the swivel connector extendsin a substantially perpendicular direction relative to the longitudinalaxis of the valve manifold.

In some configurations, the gases inlet of the valve manifold is axiallylocated at or toward an end of the valve manifold.

In some configurations, the gases inlet of the swivel connector isrotatable through up to about 190 degrees about the longitudinal axis ofthe valve manifold, or through up to about 180 degrees about thelongitudinal axis of the valve manifold, or through up to about 160degrees about the longitudinal axis of the valve manifold, or through upto about 120 degrees about the longitudinal axis of the valve manifold,or through up to about 90 degrees about the longitudinal axis of thevalve manifold, or through up to about 60 degrees about the longitudinalaxis of the valve manifold, or through up to about 45 degrees about thelongitudinal axis of the valve manifold.

In some configurations, the valve manifold gases inlet extendssubstantially transversely relative to a longitudinal axis of the valvemanifold, and is fluidly connectable to a gas supply line, and whereinthe valve and valve manifold are rotatable relative to the valve carrierabout the longitudinal axis of the valve manifold.

In some configurations, the valve manifold gases inlet extends in asubstantially perpendicular direction relative to the longitudinal axisof the valve manifold.

In some configurations, the valve and valve manifold are rotatablerelative to the valve carrier through up to about 190 degrees about thelongitudinal axis of the valve manifold, or through up to about 180degrees about the longitudinal axis of the valve manifold, or through upto about 160 degrees about the longitudinal axis of the valve manifold,or through up to about 120 degrees about the longitudinal axis of thevalve manifold, or through up to about 90 degrees about the longitudinalaxis of the valve manifold, or through up to about 60 degrees about thelongitudinal axis of the valve manifold, or through up to about 45degrees about the longitudinal axis of the valve manifold.

In some configurations, the valve module is arranged to directly couplewith a filter module to provide a gas flow path from the valve module tothe filter module.

In some configurations, the valve module is removably engageable with ahousing of the apparatus for delivering a flow of gas, such that thevalve module is substantially received within the housing and isaccessible from an exterior of the housing.

Additionally, in accordance with certain features, aspects andadvantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, anapparatus for delivering a flow of gas is disclosed, the apparatuscomprising: a housing with a gases outlet for delivering a flow of gasto a patient, the housing defining a recess; and a filter module asdescribed above engaged with the recess.

In some configurations, the apparatus further comprises a valve moduleas described above.

In some configurations, the valve module is directly coupled with thefilter to provide a gas flow path from the valve module to the filter.

Additionally, in accordance with certain features, aspects andadvantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, anapparatus for delivering a flow of gas is disclosed, the apparatuscomprising: a housing defining a recess; and a valve module as describedabove removably received in the recess of the housing.

In some configurations, the valve module is retained in the recess ofthe housing by fasteners, a snap fit, a releasable snap fit, or thelike.

In some configurations, the valve module is as described above, whereinthe gases inlet that is fluidly connectable to the gas supply line ismovable between a substantially horizontal position and a substantiallyvertical position, relative to the housing.

Additionally, in accordance with certain features, aspects andadvantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, anapparatus for delivering a flow of gas is disclosed, the apparatuscomprising: a housing with a gases outlet for delivering a flow of gasto a patient; and a connector comprising a gases inlet for receipt of aflow of gas from a gas supply line, wherein the gases inlet is fluidlyconnectable to a gas supply line to receive gas from the gas supplyline, wherein the gases inlet of the connector is arranged to moverelative to the housing.

In some configurations, the gases inlet of the connector is arranged torotate relative to the housing.

In some configurations, the gases inlet of the connector is rotatablethrough up to about 190 degrees relative to the housing, or through upto about 180 degrees relative to the housing, or through up to about 160degrees relative to the housing, or through up to about 120 degreesrelative to the housing, or through up to about 90 degrees relative tothe housing, or through up to about 60 degrees relative to the housing,or through up to about 45 degrees relative to the housing.

In some configurations, the gases inlet extends substantiallytransversely relative to an axis of rotation of the gases inlet.

In some configurations, the gases inlet extends substantiallyperpendicularly relative to the axis of rotation of the gases inlet.

In some configurations, the gases inlet extends substantiallyperpendicular to a sidewall of the housing.

In some configurations, the axis of rotation is a first axis of rotationof the gases inlet of the connector, and wherein the gases inlet of theconnector is additionally arranged to rotate about a second axis that istransverse to the first axis of rotation.

In some configurations, the gases inlet of the connector is arranged torotate in substantially any direction relative to the valve manifold viaa ball and socket arrangement.

In some configurations, the gases inlet of the connector is arranged totranslate relative to the housing.

In some configurations, the apparatus is arranged to simultaneouslyreceive gas from the gases inlet and ambient air.

In some configurations, the apparatus is configured such that the gasfrom the gases inlet and the ambient air are dynamically entrained/mixedin the apparatus prior to being delivered to the gases outlet.

In some configurations, the apparatus comprises a valve module, whereinthe connector is part of the valve module.

In some configurations, the valve module is arranged to control a flowof gas from gases inlet into the apparatus.

In some configurations, the connector is arranged to receive a gassupply line via a gas supply line connection.

In some configurations, the gas supply line connection is moveablebetween a substantially horizontal position and a substantially verticalposition, relative to the housing.

Additionally, in accordance with certain features, aspects andadvantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, acombination is disclosed, the combination comprising: a valve module,wherein the valve module comprises a flow control valve, wherein thevalve is arranged to control a flow of gas, and wherein the valve moduleis removably engageable with a housing of an apparatus for delivering aflow of gas; and a filter module, wherein the filter module is removablyengageable with the housing of an apparatus for delivering a flow ofgas, such that the filter module is accessible from an exterior of thehousing, and wherein the filter module is arranged to receive gases fromthe valve module.

In some configurations, the valve module is arranged to directly couplewith the filter module to provide a gas flow path from the valve moduleto the filter module.

In some configurations, the valve module comprises the valve and a valvemanifold to receive gas from the valve, wherein the valve manifold has avalve manifold gases outlet that is arranged to deliver the gas from theflow control valve to the filter module.

In some configurations, the valve module comprises a valve carrier thatsubstantially contains and supports the valve and the valve manifold.

In some configurations, the valve carrier comprises an ambient airinlet.

In some configurations, the valve module comprise a connector with agases inlet for delivering gases to the valve.

In some configurations, the filter module comprises a filter body,wherein the filter body has a main compartment and at least onesub-compartment at least partly within the main compartment, wherein themain compartment and the at least one sub-compartment are arranged toreceive gases from respective gases inlets, and are arranged to delivergases through respective gases outlets.

In some configurations, the filter module comprises a filter mediumassociated with the main compartment and the sub-compartment(s), whereinthe filter medium is arranged to filter gases in, or exiting, the maincompartment and the sub-compartment(s).

In some configurations, the filter medium spans the main compartmentgases outlet and the first sub-compartment gases outlet(s).

In some configurations, the valve module is substantially receivedwithin the housing and is accessible from an exterior of the housing.

Additionally, in accordance with certain features, aspects andadvantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, anapparatus for delivering a flow of gas is disclosed, the apparatuscomprising: a housing with a gases outlet for delivering a flow of gasto a patient, a gases inlet, and a sealed gases path between the gasesinlet and the gases outlet, the sealed gases path comprising a filter tofilter gases that have been received from the first gases inlet, thefilter comprising a filter body, a gases inlet, a gases outlet, and afilter medium that is arranged to filter gases in, or exiting, thefilter body.

In some configurations, the filter is a filter module that is removablyand sealably engageable with the housing.

In some configurations, the filter module is removable from the housingsuch that the sealed path is unsealed when the filter module is removed.

Additionally, in accordance with certain features, aspects andadvantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, anapparatus for delivering a flow of gas is disclosed, the apparatuscomprising:

a valve module, wherein the valve module comprises a flow control valve,wherein the valve is arranged to control a flow of gas; and

a filter module arranged to receive gases from the valve module.

In some configurations, the valve module is arranged to directly couplewith the filter module to provide a gas flow path from the valve moduleto the filter module.

In some configurations, the valve module comprises the valve and a valvemanifold to receive gas from the valve, wherein the valve manifold has avalve manifold gases outlet that is arranged to deliver the gas from theflow control valve to the filter module.

In some configurations, the valve module comprises a valve carrier thatsubstantially contains and supports the valve and the valve manifold.

In some configurations, the valve carrier comprises an ambient airinlet.

In some configurations, the valve module comprise a connector with agases inlet for delivering gases to the valve.

In some configurations, the filter module comprises a filter body,wherein the filter body has a main compartment and at least onesub-compartment at least partly within the main compartment, wherein themain compartment and the at least one sub-compartment are arranged toreceive gases from respective gases inlets, and are arranged to delivergases through respective gases outlets.

In some configurations, the filter module comprises a filter mediumassociated with the main compartment and the sub-compartment(s), whereinthe filter medium is arranged to filter gases in, or exiting, the maincompartment and the sub-compartment(s).

In some configurations, the filter medium spans the main compartmentgases outlet and the first sub-compartment gases outlet(s).

Additionally, in accordance with certain features, aspects andadvantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, a valvemodule for an apparatus for delivering a flow of gas is disclosed, thevalve module comprising: a flow control valve, wherein the valve isarranged to control a flow of gas; wherein the valve module is removablyengageable with a housing of the apparatus for delivering a flow of gas,such that the valve module is substantially received within the housingand is accessible from an exterior of the housing.

In some configurations, the valve is arranged to control a flow of gasinto part of the apparatus. For example, the valve may be arranged tocontrol a flow of gas to a filter. Alternatively, the valve may bearranged to control a flow of gas to another part of the apparatus. Thevalve and filter may be positioned upstream of a blower of theapparatus. The valve and filter may be positioned downstream of a blowerof the apparatus.

In some configurations, part of the valve module is arranged to besubstantially flush with an external wall of the housing when the valvemodule is removably engaged with the housing.

In some configurations, the valve module comprises a valve manifold witha valve manifold gases inlet and a valve manifold gases outlet. In someconfigurations, the valve manifold has a plurality of valve manifoldgases outlets.

In some configurations, the valve is sealingly engaged with the valvemanifold.

In some configurations, the valve is arranged to control a flow of gasfrom the valve manifold gases inlet to the valve manifold gases outlet.

In some configurations, the valve is a solenoid valve, a motor-drivenvalve, or a piezo-operated valve.

In some configurations, the valve is a proportional solenoid valve. Insome configurations, an extent of gas flow through the valve (i.e., thevalve opening) is relative to an amount of electrical current suppliedto the valve. In some configurations, the valve may be a different typeof electrically-actuated valve, such as an electrically actuatedsolenoid valve.

In some configurations, the valve manifold has a shape that iscomplementary to the shape of the valve. In some configurations, thevalve manifold has a substantially cylindrical body, and the valve has asubstantially cylindrical body. Alternatively, the valve manifold andvalve may have different shapes.

In some configurations, the valve manifold gases outlet is radiallylocated on the valve manifold. In some configurations, the valvemanifold comprises a plurality of valve manifold gases outlets that areradially located about the valve manifold.

In some configurations, the valve manifold gases outlet(s) is/areaeroacoustically shaped to reduce noise. The valve manifold gasesoutlet(s) may be one, or a combination of, through-holes, frustoconical,or flared in shape.

In some configurations, the valve module comprises a valve carrier thatsubstantially contains and supports the valve and the valve manifold. Insome configurations, the valve carrier is removably engageable with thehousing of the apparatus.

In some configurations, the valve carrier comprises supporting structureto support the valve and valve manifold. In some configurations, thesupporting structure comprises one, two, or more supports to support thevalve and valve manifold.

In some configurations, the valve carrier comprises a speaker housingand an audio speaker located in the speaker housing.

In some configurations, a temperature sensor is provided on or in thevalve carrier. In some configurations, the temperature sensor comprisesa thermistor, a digital temperature sensor, or any other suitable typeof temperature sensor. In some configurations, the temperature sensor isconfigured to provide ambient temperature feedback to a controller ofthe apparatus.

In some configurations, the valve carrier comprises a first valvecarrier part and a second valve carrier part, wherein the valve andvalve manifold are secured in place at least partly between the firstvalve carrier part and the second valve carrier part. In someconfigurations, the first valve carrier part comprises a lower valvecarrier part, and the second valve carrier part comprises an upper valvecarrier part. Alternatively, the first valve carrier part may comprise afirst side part and the second valve carrier part may comprise a secondside part. In some configurations the valve carrier comprises one ormore guards.

In some configurations, the valve module comprises an electricalconnector to provide an electrical connection between the valve moduleand the apparatus for delivering a flow of gas. In some configurations,the electrical connector is in electric/electronic communication withthe valve, wherein the electrical connector is arranged or adapted toengage with a complementary connector in the apparatus for delivering aflow of gas; for example by plugging into the complementary connector.In some configurations the electrical connector comprises wires toprovide the electrical/electronic communication between the valve andthe electrical connector. In some configurations the electricalconnector comprises a flexible printed circuit board. In someconfigurations, the electrical connector may additionally comprisegrommets. In some alternative configurations, a printed circuit board(PCB) is positioned in a housing of the apparatus for delivering a flowof gas, and the electrical connector In the valve module comprises anedge connector to engage with the printed circuit board. In someconfigurations, the PCB is in electric/electronic communication with thetemperature sensor and speaker if provided.

In some configurations, the electrical connector projects from or ispositioned in a top, side, or base of the valve carrier. In someconfigurations, the complementary connector is provided in a valvemodule receiving cavity of the apparatus for delivering a flow of gas.

In some configurations, the valve carrier comprises flow guidingstructure, wherein the flow guiding structure is arranged to direct gasflow from the valve manifold gases outlet(s) toward a filter when thevalve module is removably engaged with the housing. In someconfigurations, the flow guiding structure comprises an annular housingthat surrounds a plurality of valve manifold gases outlets, wherein theflow guiding structure comprises a gases outlet that is in fluidcommunication with a gases inlet of the filter.

In some configurations, the valve module comprises a connector with agases inlet, wherein the gases inlet of the connector is fluidlyconnectable to a gas supply line, and wherein the connector is arrangedto provide a fluid connection between the gas supply line and the gasesinlet of the valve manifold, wherein the gases inlet of the connector ismovable relative to the valve manifold. In some configurations, theconnector is a swivel connector, the gases inlet is orientedsubstantially transversely relative to a longitudinal axis of the valvemanifold, and the gases inlet of the swivel connector is arranged torotate about a longitudinal axis of the valve manifold. In someconfigurations, the gases inlet of the swivel connector is additionallyarranged to rotate about a second axis that is transverse to thelongitudinal axis of the valve manifold. In some configurations, theswivel connector is arranged to provide both swivelling andtranslational movement, so that the gases inlet of the swivel connectormay both swivel about one or more axes and may also travel linearly forexample. In some configurations, the swivel connector may comprise aball and socket arrangement or similar, to enable the gases inlet of theswivel connector to rotate in substantially any direction relative tothe valve manifold.

In some configurations, the gases inlet of the swivel connector isoriented substantially perpendicularly relative to the longitudinal axisof the valve manifold. In some configurations, the gases inlet could beoriented at a different substantially transverse angle relative to thelongitudinal axis of the valve manifold.

In some configurations, the gases inlet of the valve manifold is axiallylocated at or toward an end of the valve manifold.

In some configurations, the gases inlet of the swivel connector isrotatable through up to about 190 degrees about the longitudinal axis ofthe valve manifold, or through up to about 180 degrees about thelongitudinal axis of the valve manifold, or through up to about 160degrees about the longitudinal axis of the valve manifold, or through upto about 120 degrees about the longitudinal axis of the valve manifold,or through up to about 90 degrees about the longitudinal axis of thevalve manifold, or through up to about 60 degrees about the longitudinalaxis of the valve manifold, or through up to about 45 degrees about thelongitudinal axis of the valve manifold.

In some configurations, the valve manifold gases inlet extendssubstantially transversely relative to a longitudinal axis of the valvemanifold, and is fluidly connectable to a gas supply line, and the valveand valve manifold are rotatable relative to the valve carrier about thelongitudinal axis of the valve manifold.

In some configurations, the valve manifold gases inlet extends in asubstantially perpendicular direction relative to the longitudinal axisof the valve manifold. In some configurations, the valve manifold gasesinlet could be oriented at a different substantially transverse anglerelative to the longitudinal axis of the valve manifold.

In some configurations, the valve and valve manifold are rotatablerelative to the valve carrier through up to about 190 degrees about thelongitudinal axis of the valve manifold, or through up to about 180degrees about the longitudinal axis of the valve manifold, or through upto about 160 degrees about the longitudinal axis of the valve manifold,or through up to about 120 degrees about the longitudinal axis of thevalve manifold, or through up to about 90 degrees about the longitudinalaxis of the valve manifold, or through up to about 60 degrees about thelongitudinal axis of the valve manifold, or through up to about 45degrees about the longitudinal axis of the valve manifold.

In some configurations, the gases inlet of the connector is arranged totranslate relative to the valve manifold.

In some configurations, the valve module is arranged to directly couplewith a filter to provide a gas flow path from the valve module to thefilter.

Additionally, in accordance with certain features, aspects andadvantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, anapparatus for delivering a flow of gas is disclosed, the apparatuscomprising: a housing defining a recess; and a valve module as outlinedabove removably received in the recess of the housing.

In some configurations, the valve module is retained in the recess ofthe housing by fasteners, a snap fit, or the like.

In some configurations, the gases inlet that is fluidly connectable tothe gas supply line is movable between a substantially horizontalposition and a substantially vertical position, relative to the housing.In some configurations, the substantially horizontal position is a side,forward, or rearward position. In some configurations, the substantiallyvertical position is an upward or downward position. In someconfigurations, the substantially horizontal position is a side positionand the substantially vertical position is a downward position.

Additionally, in accordance with certain features, aspects andadvantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, anapparatus for delivering a flow of gas is disclosed, the apparatuscomprising: a housing with a gases outlet for delivering a flow of gasto a patient; and a connector comprising a gases inlet for receipt of aflow of gas from a gas supply line, wherein the gases inlet is fluidlyconnectable to a gas supply line to receive gas from the gas supplyline, wherein the gases inlet of the connector is arranged to moverelative to the housing.

In some configurations, the gases inlet of the connector is arranged torotate relative to the housing. In some configurations, the gases inletof the connector is rotatable through up to about 190 degrees relativeto the housing, or through up to about 180 degrees relative to thehousing, or through up to about 160 degrees relative to the housing, orthrough up to about 120 degrees relative to the housing, or through upto about 90 degrees relative to the housing, or through up to about 60degrees relative to the housing, or through up to about 45 degreesrelative to the housing.

In some configurations, the gases inlet extends substantiallytransversely relative to an axis of rotation of the gases inlet relativeto the housing. Therefore, when a gas supply line is fluidly connectedto the gases inlet, the gas supply line can extend substantiallytransversely relative to the axis of rotation.

In some configurations, the gases inlet extends substantiallyperpendicularly relative to the axis of rotation of the gases inlet. Insome configurations, the gases inlet could be oriented at a differentsubstantially transverse angle relative to the axis of rotation of thegases inlet.

In some configurations, the axis of rotation is a first axis of rotationof the gases inlet of the connector, and the gases inlet of theconnector is additionally arranged to rotate about a second axis that istransverse to the first axis of rotation.

In some configurations, the gases inlet of the connector is arranged torotate in substantially any direction relative to the valve manifold viaa ball and socket arrangement.

In some configurations, the gases inlet of the connector is additionallyor alternatively arranged to translate relative to the housing.

In some configurations, the apparatus is arranged to simultaneouslyreceive gas from the gases inlet and ambient air. In someconfigurations, the apparatus is configured such that the gas from thegases inlet and the ambient air are dynamically entrained/mixed in theapparatus prior to being delivered to the gases outlet. In someconfigurations, the apparatus comprises a blower to transfer the gasfrom the gases inlet and the ambient air, via a gas flow path, to thegases outlet.

In some configurations, the apparatus is arranged to draw in ambient airvia suction provided by the blower. In some configurations, theapparatus is arranged to simultaneously draw in gas from the gasesinlet. In some alternative configurations, the apparatus is arranged tosimultaneously receive pressurised gas from the gases inlet. In someconfigurations the pressurised gas is received from a pressurised wallsupply, gas tank, or other source.

In some configurations, the apparatus comprises a valve module, whereinthe connector is part of the valve module. In some configurations, thevalve module is arranged to control a flow of gas from gases inlet intothe apparatus.

In some configurations, the connector is arranged to receive a gassupply line via a gas supply line connection. In some configurations,the gas supply line connection is moveable between a substantiallyhorizontal position and a substantially vertical position, relative tothe housing. In some configurations, the substantially horizontalposition is a side, forward, or rearward position. In someconfigurations, the substantially vertical position is an upward ordownward position. In some configurations, the substantially horizontalposition is a side position and the substantially vertical position is adownward position.

Additionally, in accordance with certain features, aspects andadvantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, a filterfor an apparatus for delivering a flow of gas is disclosed, the filtercomprising: a filter body, wherein the filter body has a maincompartment and a sub-compartment at least partly within the maincompartment, wherein the main compartment is in fluid communication witha main compartment gases inlet and the sub-compartment is in fluidcommunication with a sub-compartment gases inlet; and a filter mediumassociated with both the main compartment and the sub-compartment, andthat is arranged to filter gases in, or exiting, the main compartmentand the sub-compartment.

In some configurations, the filter body comprises a plurality ofsub-compartments located at least partly within the main compartment. Insome configurations, the filter body comprises one sub-compartment, twosub-compartments, or three or more sub-compartments.

In some configurations, the sub-compartment(s) are located entirelywithin the main compartment. Alternatively, in some configurations, thesub-compartment(s) are located partly externally of the maincompartment. In some configurations, at least one sub-compartment islocated entirely within the main compartment and at least onesub-compartment is located partly externally of the main compartment.

In some configurations, the filter medium covers or spans the maincompartment and the sub-compartment(s).

In some configurations, the filter medium is located on an external faceof the filter body to filter gases exiting the main compartment and thesub-compartment. Alternatively, in some configurations the filter mediummay be positioned at least partly within the main compartment and thesub-compartment to filter gases in the main compartment and thesub-compartment.

In some configurations, the filter is a filter module that is removablyand sealably engageable with a housing of an apparatus for delivering aflow of gas. In some configurations, the filter comprises seal(s) aboutan external periphery of the filter to sealingly engage the filter inthe housing of the apparatus. In some configurations, the filter andseal(s) are arranged such that gases entering the apparatus are forcedto pass through the filter before entering the gas flow path of theapparatus. In some configurations, the seal(s) comprise(s) O-ring(s) orintegrally formed ‘wiper’ seal(s). The integrally formed wiper seal(s)provide(s) ease of manufacture.

In some configurations, the main compartment is defined by at least onemain compartment wall bounding a main compartment volume. In someconfigurations, the sub-compartment is defined by at least onesub-compartment wall bounding a sub-compartment volume at least partlywithin the main compartment volume.

In some configurations, the main compartment is arranged to receiveoxygen (or other gases) from a valve manifold. In some alternativeconfigurations, the main compartment is arranged to receive ambient air.

In some configurations, the sub-compartment may be arranged to receiveoxygen (or other gases) from a top, alternative supply. In someconfigurations, the sub-compartment may be arranged to receive oxygen(or other gases) from a side or rear alternative supply.

In some configurations, the filter comprises a second sub-compartment atleast partly within the main compartment, wherein the secondsub-compartment is arranged to receive gas from a second sub-compartmentgases inlet.

In some configurations, the second sub-compartment may receive ambientair. In some alternative configurations, the second sub-compartment mayreceive oxygen (or other gases) from a valve manifold.

In some configurations, the filter medium comprises substantially a samematerial as the filter body. In some configurations, the filter bodycomprises polypropylene material or other suitable polymeric material,and the filter medium comprises spun polypropylene or other suitablepolymeric or synthetic material(s).

In some configurations, the filter medium is ultrasonically welded tothe at least one main compartment wall and the at least onesub-compartment wall. In some configurations, the at least one maincompartment wall and the at least one sub-compartment wall are shaped toprovide a large ultrasonic weld area. In some configurations, the maincompartment wall and the at least one sub-compartment wall comprise oneor more of a flange and/or a substantially flattened ‘n’-shaped wallformation.

In some alternative configurations, the filter medium may be overmouldedto the at least one main compartment wall and the at least onesub-compartment wall. In some alternative configurations, the filtermedium may be adhered to the at least one main compartment wall and theat least one sub-compartment wall, with glue or resin adhesive.

In some configurations, the main compartment is substantiallyrectangular in profile. In alternative configurations, the maincompartment has a different shape In profile, such as round, elliptical,square, or any other suitable shape.

In some configurations, the filter has a filter top panel that isattached or attachable to the filter body. In some configurations, thefilter top panel is attachable to the filter body by way of a snap fit,clips, fasteners, or other suitable attachments.

In some configurations, the filter top panel is arranged to besubstantially flush with a housing of the apparatus for delivering aflow of gas, when the filter is engaged with the housing.

In some configurations, the filter top panel is made from a samematerial as an adjacent portion of the housing of the apparatus. In someconfigurations, the filter top panel is polycarbonate or anothersuitable polymeric material.

In some configurations, the filter top panel comprises a handlingfeature to aid in insertion and/or removal of the filter from a housingof the apparatus for delivering a flow of gas.

In some configurations, the filter handling feature comprises a ridge,groove, or grip. In some configurations, the filter handling feature isprovided at a periphery of the filter top panel. In some configurations,the filter handling feature is provided elsewhere on the filter toppanel. In some configurations, the filter top panel comprises aplurality of filter handling features.

In some configurations, the filter body comprises a gas supply lineconnector in fluid communication with the sub-compartment. In someconfigurations, the gas supply line connector comprises a gas supplyline retention feature such as a barb at or adjacent an upper end of thegas supply line connector.

In some configurations, the gas supply line connector may be connectableto an oxygen line to receive oxygen from an alternative supply. In someconfigurations, the filter top panel comprises an opening that exposesand protectively surrounds the gas supply line connector.

In some configurations, the filter comprises a second sub-compartment atleast partly within the main compartment, wherein the secondsub-compartment is arranged to receive gas from a second sub-compartmentgases inlet, and wherein a duct is provided in fluid communication withthe second sub-compartment. The duct may be arranged to receive gasesfrom the valve manifold gases outlets, for example via a flow guidingstructure on the valve manifold.

In some configurations, the duct is integrally formed with the filterbody or is separately formed from the filter body.

Additionally, in accordance with certain features, aspects andadvantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, a filterfor an apparatus for delivering a flow of gas is disclosed, the filtercomprising: a filter body, wherein the filter body has a maincompartment that is in fluid communication with a main compartment gasesinlet and a main compartment gases outlet, wherein the main compartmentgases outlet is substantially planar and is spanned by a filter medium,and wherein the main compartment gases inlet and main compartment gasesoutlet are arranged such that a gas flow direction through the inlet isoffset from a gas flow direction through the outlet.

In some configurations, the gas flow direction through the maincompartment gases inlet is substantially perpendicular to the gas flowdirection through the main compartment gases outlet.

In some configurations, the main compartment is substantiallyrectangular In profile. In alternative configurations, the maincompartment has a different shape in profile, such as round, elliptical,square, or any other suitable shape.

In some configurations, at least a portion of the main compartmenttapers inwardly such that a portion of the main compartment spacedfurther from the main compartment gases inlet has a smaller dimensionthan a portion of the main compartment adjacent the main compartmentgases inlet. Incoming gases may thereby be deflected substantiallytransversely toward/through the filter medium.

In some configurations, substantially the entire main compartment tapersinwardly. In some configurations, the filter body comprises an angledwall that at least partly defines the main compartment and provides thetapering of the main compartment. The angled wall may be positioned onan opposite face of the main compartment to the filter medium.

In some configurations, only a small part of the main compartment tapersinwardly.

In some configurations, the filter body comprises a sub-compartment atleast partly within the main compartment and that is in fluidcommunication with a sub-compartment gases inlet. In someconfigurations, the sub-compartment comprises a sub-compartment gasesoutlet, and the filter medium spans the sub-compartment gases outlet.

In some configurations, the filter body comprises two, three, or moresub-compartments. Each of the sub-compartments may be arranged todeliver a secondary or alternative gas to the apparatus for delivering aflow of gas. For example, one of the sub-compartments may be used todeliver oxygen, and one of the sub-compartments may be used to deliverhelix.

In some configurations, a ratio of the area of the sub-compartment gasesinlet to the sub-compartment gases outlet is between about 1:5 and about1:80, or is between about 1:10 and about 1:40, or is about 1:20.

In some configurations, the filter body comprises a secondsub-compartment at least partly within the main compartment, wherein thesecond sub-compartment is arranged to receive gas from a secondsub-compartment gases inlet. In some configurations, the secondsub-compartment comprises a second sub-compartment gases outlet, and thefilter medium spans the second sub-compartment gases outlet. In someconfigurations, a ratio of the area of the second sub-compartment gasesinlet to the second sub-compartment gases outlet is between about 1:5and about 1:80, or is between about 1:10 and about 1:40, or is betweenabout 1:20 and about 1:25.

In some configurations, a ratio of the area of the main compartmentgases inlet to the area of the main compartment gases outlet is betweenabout 1:10 and about 1:40, or is between about 1:15 and about 1:30, oris between about 1:20 and about 1:25.

In some configurations, the filter comprises any one or more of thefeatures outlined in relation to the other configurations describedherein.

In some configurations, filter medium(s) may be provided on two opposingfaces of the filter to form two main compartment gases outlets and,depending on the number of sub-compartments, one, two, or moresub-compartment gases outlets. In some configurations, a ratio of thearea of the main compartment gases inlet to the total area of the maincompartment gases outlets is between about 1:20 and about 1:80, or isbetween about 1:30 and about 1:60, or is between about 1:40 and about1:50. In some configurations having a first sub-compartment with twosub-compartment gases outlets, a ratio of the area of the firstsub-compartment gases inlet to the total area of the sub-compartmentgases outlets is between about 1:10 and about 1:160, or is between about1:20 and about 1:80, or is about 1:40. In some configurations having asecond sub-compartment with two second sub-compartment gases outlets, aratio of the area of the second sub-compartment gases inlet to the totalarea of the second sub-compartment gases outlets is between about 1:10and about 1:160, or is between about 1:20 and about 1:80, or is betweenabout 1:40 and about 1:50.

Additionally, in accordance with certain features, aspects andadvantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, anapparatus for delivering a flow of gas is disclosed, the apparatuscomprising:

a housing with a gases outlet for delivering a flow of gas to a patient,the housing defining a recess; and

a filter as outlined above engaged with the recess.

In some configurations, the apparatus comprises a valve module asoutlined above.

Additionally, in accordance with certain features, aspects andadvantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, anapparatus for delivering a flow of gas is disclosed, the apparatuscomprising:

a housing with a gases outlet for delivering a flow of gas to a patient;and

a first gases inlet, a second gases inlet, and an ambient air inlet.

In some configurations, the apparatus comprises a filter to filter gasesthat have been received from the first gases inlet, the second gasesinlet, and the ambient air inlet.

In some configurations, the apparatus comprises a flow control valvearranged to receive gas from the first gases inlet and to deliver thegas to the filter.

In some configurations, the apparatus comprises a blower arranged toreceive gases from the filter and to deliver the gases to the gasesoutlet.

In some configurations, the apparatus comprises a valve module that isremovably engageable with the housing, wherein the valve modulecomprises the valve and a valve manifold to receive gas from the valve,wherein the valve manifold has a valve manifold gases outlet that isarranged to deliver the gas from the flow control valve to the filter.In some configurations, the valve module comprises a valve carrier thatsubstantially contains and supports the valve and the valve manifold. Insome configurations, the ambient air inlet is provided in the valvecarrier.

In some configurations, the valve module is arranged to directly couplewith the filter to provide a gas flow path from the valve module to thefilter.

In some configurations, the first gases inlet is arranged to moverelative to the housing.

In some configurations, the filter comprises a filter body, wherein thefilter body has a main compartment, a first sub-compartment at leastpartly within the main compartment, and a second compartment at leastpartly within the main compartment, wherein the first gases inlet, thesecond gases inlet, and the ambient air inlet are each in fluidcommunication with a respective one of the main compartment, the firstsub-compartment, and the second sub-compartment. In some configurations,the filter comprises a filter medium associated with all of the maincompartment, the first sub-compartment, and the second sub-compartment,wherein the filter medium is arranged to filter gases in, or exiting,the main compartment, the first sub-compartment, and the secondsub-compartment. In some configurations, the filter comprises a maincompartment gases outlet, a first sub-compartment gases outlet, and asecond sub-compartment gases outlet, and the filter medium spans themain compartment gases outlet, the first sub-compartment gases outlet,and the second sub-compartment gases outlet.

In some configurations, the filter is removably engageable with thehousing.

In some configurations, the apparatus is a nasal high flow therapyapparatus.

Additionally, in accordance with certain features, aspects andadvantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, there isdisclosed the combination of:

a valve module, wherein the valve module comprises a flow control valve,wherein the valve is arranged to control a flow of gas, and wherein thevalve module is removably engageable with a housing of an apparatus fordelivering a flow of gas, such that the valve module is substantiallyreceived within and is accessible from an exterior of the housing; and

a filter module, wherein the filter module is removably engageable withthe housing of an apparatus for delivering a flow of gas, such that thefilter module is accessible from an exterior of the housing, and whereinthe filter module is arranged to receive gases from the valve module.

In some configurations, the valve module is arranged to directly couplewith the filter module to provide a gas flow path from the valve moduleto the filter module.

In some configurations, the valve module comprises the valve and a valvemanifold to receive gas from the valve, wherein the valve manifold has avalve manifold gases outlet that is arranged to deliver the gas from theflow control valve to the filter. In some configurations, the valvemodule comprises a valve carrier that substantially contains andsupports the valve and the valve manifold. In some configurations, thevalve carrier comprises an ambient air inlet.

In some configurations, the valve module comprise a connector with agases inlet for delivering gases to the valve, wherein the gases inletis movable.

In some configurations, the filter comprises a filter body, wherein thefilter body has a main compartment and at least one sub-compartment atleast partly within the main compartment, wherein the main compartmentand the at least one sub-compartment are arranged to receive gases fromrespective gases inlets, and a arranged to deliver gases throughrespective gases outlets.

In some configurations, the filter comprises a filter medium associatedwith the main compartment and the sub-compartment(s), wherein the filtermedium is arranged to filter gases in, or exiting, the main compartmentand the sub-compartment(s). In some configurations, the filter mediumspans the main compartment gases outlet and the first sub-compartmentgases outlet(s).

It will be appreciated that the filter and the valve module describedherein may be used separately in apparatuses for delivering a flow ofgas. Alternatively, the filter and the valve module may be used togetherfor improved functionality. The filter and the valve module may beprovided together to provide a filter and valve assembly.

Features from one or more embodiments or configurations may be combinedwith features of one or more other embodiments or configurations.Additionally, more than one embodiment may be used together during aprocess of respiratory support of a patient.

The term ‘comprising’ as used in this specification means ‘consisting atleast in part of’. When interpreting each statement in thisspecification that includes the term ‘comprising’, features other thanthat or those prefaced by the term may also be present. Related termssuch as ‘comprise’ and ‘comprises’ are to be interpreted in the samemanner.

It is intended that reference to a range of numbers disclosed herein(for example, 1 to 10) also incorporates reference to all rationalnumbers within that range (for example, 1, 1.1, 2, 3, 3.9, 4, 5, 6, 6.5,7, 8, 9 and 10) and also any range of rational numbers within that range(for example, 2 to 8, 1.5 to 5.5 and 3.1 to 4.7) and, therefore, allsub-ranges of all ranges expressly disclosed herein are hereby expresslydisclosed. These are only examples of what is specifically intended andall possible combinations of numerical values between the lowest valueand the highest value enumerated are to be considered to be expresslystated in this application in a similar manner.

It should be understood that alternative embodiments or configurationsmay comprise any or all combinations of two or more of the parts,elements or features illustrated, described or referred to in thisspecification.

To those skilled in the art to which the invention relates, many changesin construction and widely differing embodiments and applications of theinvention will suggest themselves without departing from the scope ofthe invention as defined in the appended claims. The disclosures and thedescriptions herein are purely illustrative and are not intended to bein any sense limiting. Where specific integers are mentioned hereinwhich have known equivalents in the art to which this invention relates,such known equivalents are deemed to be incorporated herein as ifindividually set forth. This invention may also be said broadly toconsist in the parts, elements and features referred to or indicated inthe specification of the application, individually or collectively, andany or all combinations of any two or more said parts, elements orfeatures.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Specific embodiments and modifications thereof will become apparent tothose skilled in the art from the detailed description herein havingreference to the figures that follow, of which:

FIG. 1 shows in diagrammatic form a breathing assistance apparatus inthe form of a flow therapy apparatus.

FIG. 2A is a left side view of the flow therapy apparatus showing anexemplary location or the valve module and the filter module.

FIG. 2B is a top view of the flow therapy apparatus showing an exemplarylocation of the valve module and the filter module.

FIG. 3A is a left front perspective view of the flow therapy apparatuswith the filter module highlighted.

FIG. 3B is a left front perspective view of the flow therapy apparatuswith the valve module highlighted.

FIG. 4 is a left front perspective partial cutaway view showing thevalve module and the filter module.

FIG. 5 is a right front overhead perspective view of the lower chassisof the flow therapy apparatus with the valve module and the filtermodule In place.

FIG. 6 is an underside perspective view of the lower chassis of the flowtherapy apparatus with the valve module and the filter module in place.

FIG. 7 shows a motor and/or sensor module for use in the apparatus fordelivering a flow of gas.

FIG. 8 shows a blower unit for the motor and/or sensor module.

FIG. 9 is a schematic gas flow path diagram for the filter module andthe valve module, with the solid line arrows representing the flow ofoxygen (or another gas), and the dashed line arrows representing theflow of ambient air.

FIG. 10 is a sectional view showing the gas flow path through the filtermodule and the valve module.

FIG. 11A is a front right overhead perspective view of a filter body ofa first configuration filter module.

FIG. 11B is a front right overhead perspective view of the firstconfiguration filter comprising the filter body, filter medium, andfilter top plate.

FIG. 11C is an overhead perspective view of an upper portion of thefilter body.

FIG. 11D is an end view of the upper portion of the filter body.

FIG. 12A is a schematic side view of the first configuration filtermodule, showing gas flow paths through the filter module, with the solidline arrows representing the flow of oxygen (or another gas), and thedashed line arrows representing the flow of ambient air.

FIG. 12B is a schematic perspective view of the first configurationfilter module, showing gas flow paths through the filter module, withthe solid line arrows representing the flow of oxygen (or another gas),and the dashed line arrows representing the flow of ambient air.

FIG. 13 is a view of the first configuration filter module, showingultrasonic weld regions on wall portions of the filter body.

FIG. 14 is a fluid model showing gases flow through the tapered filtermodule.

FIG. 15 is a front right overhead perspective view of a secondconfiguration filter module.

FIG. 16 is a side view of the second configuration filter module,showing gas flow paths through the filter module, with the solid linearrows representing the flow of oxygen (or another gas), and the dashedline arrows representing the flow of ambient air.

FIG. 17 is a rear side overhead perspective view of a firstconfiguration valve module.

FIG. 18 is a rear side overhead perspective view showing the gas flowpaths through the first configuration valve module, with the solid linearrows representing the flow of oxygen (or another gas), and the dashedline arrow representing the flow of ambient air.

FIG. 19 is a sectional view through the first configuration valvemodule.

FIGS. 20A, 20B, 20C, and 20D are perspective, top, end, and side viewsrespectively of a valve manifold of the first configuration valvemodule.

FIG. 21 shows exemplary aeroacoustic shapes for the valve manifold gasesoutlets.

FIG. 22 is a sectional view showing the coupling of, and gas flow paththrough, the valve and valve manifold of the first configuration valvemodule.

FIG. 23 is a schematic gas flow path diagram for the first, fourth, andfifth configuration valve modules and the first and second configurationfilter modules, with the solid line arrows representing the flow ofoxygen (or another gas), and the dashed line arrows representing theflow of ambient air.

FIG. 24 is a rear side overhead perspective view of a secondconfiguration valve module.

FIG. 25 is a rear side overhead perspective view showing the gas flowpaths through the second configuration valve module, with the solid linearrows representing the flow of oxygen (or another gas), and the dashedline arrow representing the flow of ambient air.

FIG. 26 is a rear side overhead perspective view of a thirdconfiguration valve module.

FIG. 27 is a schematic gas flow path diagram for the second and thirdconfiguration valve modules and the first and second configurationfilter modules, with the solid line arrows representing the flow ofoxygen (or another gas), and the dashed line arrows representing theflow of ambient air.

FIG. 28 is a rear side overhead perspective view of a fourthconfiguration valve module.

FIG. 29 is a cutaway view showing the valve manifold gases outlets andflow duct to direct gas flow from the gases outlets of the fourthconfiguration valve module to the second configuration filter module.

FIG. 30 is sectional view showing the coupling of the valve and valvemanifold of the fourth configuration valve module.

FIG. 31 is a rear side overhead perspective view of a fifthconfiguration valve module.

FIG. 32 is an underside perspective view of the fifth configurationvalve module In position In the housing of the apparatus for deliveringa flow of gas, and showing the apparatus mounted to a pole stand.

FIG. 33 is a rear side overhead perspective view of part of a sixthconfiguration valve module and third configuration filter module.

FIG. 34 is a rear side overhead perspective view of the thirdconfiguration filter module and sixth configuration valve moduleincluding a valve carrier top panel.

FIG. 35 is a sectional view of part of the sixth configuration valvemodule and part of the third configuration filter module, showing thegas flow path of oxygen (or another gas) through the valve module andfilter module.

FIG. 36 is a schematic gas flow path diagram for the sixth configurationvalve module and the third configuration filter module, with the solidline arrows representing the flow of oxygen (or another gas), and thedashed line arrows representing the flow of ambient air.

FIGS. 37A-37D show exemplary seals between the valve manifold gasesoutlet of the sixth configuration valve module and the filter moduleduct of the third configuration filter module.

FIG. 38 is a side view showing gas flow paths through the thirdconfiguration filter module, with the solid line arrows representing theflow of oxygen (or another gas), and the dashed line arrows representingthe flow of ambient air.

FIG. 39 is a side view showing engagement details of the thirdconfiguration filter module.

FIG. 40 is a perspective view showing exemplary areas of gases inletsand gases outlets of the third configuration filter module.

FIG. 41 is a front left overhead perspective view of an apparatus fordelivering a flow of gas, showing a filter retention/release feature forone of the filter modules.

FIG. 42 is an alternative schematic gas flow path diagram for one of thevalve modules and one of the filter modules, with the solid line arrowsrepresenting the flow of oxygen (or another gas), and the dashed linearrows representing the flow of ambient air.

FIG. 43 is a rear side overhead perspective view of the seventhconfiguration valve module.

FIG. 44 is a view similar to FIG. 43, but viewed from the other side,with the upper valve carrier part removed.

FIG. 45 is a view similar to FIG. 43 with the upper valve carrier partremoved.

FIG. 46 is a perspective view showing a filter of a fourth configurationfilter module.

FIG. 47 is a partial sectional view of a filter extension duct andmanifold outlet.

FIG. 48 is a partial sectional view of a filter extension duct andmanifold outlet.

FIG. 49 is a partial underside view of a battery cover and valve module.

FIG. 50 is a partial overhead view of a valve module with a cap or lid.

FIG. 51 is a partial sectional view through a valve module.

FIG. 52 is an underside perspective view of a valve module showing thelocation of temperature sensor(s).

FIG. 53 is a cutaway view of a release tab.

FIG. 54 is a partial perspective view of the release tab.

FIG. 55 is a cutaway view of the release tab.

FIG. 56 is a perspective view of another valve module.

FIG. 57 is an underside view of the valve module of FIG. 56.

FIG. 58 is another perspective view of the valve module of FIG. 56.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS 1. Introduction

A flow therapy apparatus 10 for delivering a flow of gas to a patient isshown in FIG. 1. In general terms, the apparatus 10 comprises a mainhousing 100, a flow generator 11 in the form of a motor/Impellerarrangement, an optional humidifier 12, a controller 13, a user I/Ointerface 14 (comprising, for example, a display and input device(s)such as button(s), a touch screen, or the like), a filter module 1001,2001 (FIGS. 15 and 16), 3001 (FIGS. 38 to 40), 11001 (FIG. 46) and avalve module 4001, 5001, 6001, 7001, 8001, 9001 (FIGS. 17 to 37). Thecontroller 13 is configured or programmed to control the components ofthe apparatus, including: operating the flow generator 11 to create aflow of gas (gas flow) for delivery to a patient, operating thehumidifier 12 (if present) to humidify and/or heat the generated gasflow, receive user input from the user interface 14 for reconfigurationand/or user-defined operation of the apparatus 10, and outputinformation (for example on the display) to the user. The user could bea patient, healthcare professional, or anyone else interested in usingthe apparatus.

A patient breathing conduit 16 is coupled to a gas flow output 344 inthe housing 100 of the flow therapy apparatus 10, and is coupled to apatient interface 17 such as a nasal cannula with a manifold 19 andnasal prongs 18. Additionally, or alternatively, the patient breathingconduit 16 could be coupled to a face mask. Additionally oralternatively, the patient breathing conduit could be coupled to a nasalpillows mask, and/or a nasal mask, and/or a tracheostomy interface, orany other suitable type of patient interface. The gas flow, which may behumidified, that is generated by the flow therapy apparatus 10 isdelivered to the patient via the patient breathing conduit 16 throughthe cannula 17. The patient breathing conduit 16 can have a heater wire16 a to heat gas flow passing through to the patient. The heater wire 16a is under the control of the controller 13. The patient breathingconduit 16 and/or patient interface 17 can be considered part of theflow therapy apparatus 10, or alternatively peripheral to it. The flowtherapy apparatus 10, breathing conduit 16, and patient interface 17together form a flow therapy system.

General operation of a flow therapy breathing apparatus 10 will be knownto those skilled in the art, and need not be described In detail here.However, in general terms, the controller 13 controls the flow generator11 to generate a gas flow of the desired flow rate, controls one or morevalves to control the mix of air and oxygen or other alternative gas,and controls the humidifier 12 if present to humidify the gas flowand/or heat the gas flow to an appropriate level. The gas flow isdirected out through the patient breathing conduit 16 and cannula 17 tothe patient. The controller 13 can also control a heating element in thehumidifier 12 and/or the heating element 16 a In the patient breathingconduit 16 to heat the gas to a desired temperature that achieves adesired level of therapy and/or comfort for the patient. The controller13 can be programmed with, or can determine, a suitable targettemperature of the gas flow.

Operation sensors 3 a, 3 b, 3 c, 20, and 25, such as flow, temperature,humidity, and/or pressure sensors, can be placed in various locations inthe flow therapy apparatus 10 and/or the patient breathing conduit 16and/or cannula 17. Output from the sensors can be received by thecontroller 13, to assist it to operate the flow therapy apparatus 10 ina manner that provides optimal therapy. In some configurations,providing optimal therapy includes meeting a patient's inspiratorydemand. The apparatus 10 may have a transmitter and/or receiver 15 toenable the controller 13 to receive signals 8 from the sensors and/or tocontrol the various components of the flow therapy apparatus 10,including but not limited to the flow generator 11, humidifier 12, andheater wire 16 a, or accessories or peripherals associated with the flowtherapy apparatus 10. Additionally, or alternatively, the transmitterand/or receiver 15 may deliver data to a remote server or enable remotecontrol of the apparatus 10.

The flow therapy apparatus 10 may be any suitable type of apparatus, butin some configurations may deliver a high gas flow or high flow therapy(of e.g. air, oxygen, other gas mixture, or some combination thereof) toa patient to assist with breathing and/or treat breathing disorders. Insome configurations, the gas is or comprises oxygen. In someconfigurations, the gas comprises a blend of oxygen and ambient air.‘High flow therapy’ as used in this disclosure may refer to delivery ofgases to an adult patient at a flow rate of greater than or equal toabout 10 liters per minute (10 LPM), or to a neonatal, infant, or childpatient at a flow rate of greater than or equal to about 1 liters perminute (1 LPM) or 2 liters per minute (2 LPM). In some configurations,for an adult patient ‘high flow therapy’ may refer to the delivery ofgases to a patient at a flow rate of between about 10 LPM and about 100LPM, or between about 15 LPM and about 95 LPM, or between about 20 LPMand about 90 LPM, or between about 25 LPM and about 85 LPM, or betweenabout LPM and about 80 LPM, or between about 35 LPM and about 75 LPM, orbetween about 40 LPM and about 70 LPM, or between about 45 LPM and about65 LPM, or between about 50 LPM and about 60 LPM. In someconfigurations, for a neonatal, infant, or child patient ‘high flowtherapy’ may refer to the delivery of gases to a patient at a flow rateof between about 1 LPM and about 25 LPM, or between about 2 LPM andabout 25 LPM, or between about 2 LPM and about 5 LPM, or between about 5LPM and about 25 LPM, or between about 5 LPM and about 10 LPM, orbetween about 10 LPM and about 25 LPM, or between about 10 LPM and about20 LPM, or between about 10 LPM and 15 LPM, or between about 20 LPM and25 LPM. Therefore, a high flow therapy apparatus for us with either anadult patient or a neonatal, infant, or child patient, may deliver gasesto the patient at a flow rate of between about 1 LPM and about 100 LPM,or at a flow rate in any of the sub-ranges outlined above. Gasesdelivered may comprise a percentage of oxygen. In some configurations,the percentage of oxygen in the gases delivered may be between about 20%and about 100%, or between about 30% and about 100%, or between about40% and about 100%, or between about 50% and about 100%, or betweenabout 60% and about 100%, or between about 70% and about 100%, orbetween about 80% and about 100%, or between about 90% and about 100%,or about 100%, or 100%.

High flow therapy has been found effective in meeting or exceeding thepatient's inspiratory demand, increasing oxygenation of the patientand/or reducing the work of breathing. Additionally, high flow therapymay generate a flushing effect in the nasopharynx such that theanatomical dead space of the upper airways is flushed by the highincoming gas flows. This creates a reservoir of fresh gas available foreach and every breath, while minimising re-breathing of carbon dioxide,nitrogen, etc.

High flow therapy may be administered to the nares of a user and/ororally, or via a tracheostomy interface. High flow therapy may delivergases to a user at a flow rate at or exceeding the intended user's peakinspiratory flow requirements. The high flow therapy may generate aflushing effect in the nasopharynx such that the anatomical dead spaceof the upper airways is flushed by the high incoming gases flow. Thiscan create a reservoir of fresh gas available for each and every breath,while minimizing re-breathing of nitrogen and carbon dioxide.

The patient interface may be a non-sealing interface to preventbarotrauma (e.g. tissue damage to the lungs or other organs of therespiratory system due to difference in pressure relative to theatmosphere). The patient interface may be a nasal cannula with amanifold and nasal prongs, and/or a face mask, and/or a nasal pillowsmask, and/or a nasal mask, and/or a tracheostomy interface, or any othersuitable type of patient interface.

As shown in FIGS. 2A to 42 and described below, the flow therapyapparatus 10 has various features to assist with the functioning, use,and/or configuration of the apparatus 10.

2. Overview Including Main Housing Description

As shown in FIGS. 2A to 6, the flow therapy apparatus 10 comprises amain housing 100. The main housing 100 has a main housing upper chassis102 and a main housing lower chassis 202.

The main housing has a peripheral wall arrangement. The peripheral wallarrangement defines a humidifier or liquid chamber bay 108 for receiptof a removable liquid chamber 300. The removable liquid chamber 300contains a suitable liquid such as water for humidifying gases that willbe delivered to a patient.

In the form shown, the main housing lower chassis 202 peripheral wallarrangement comprises a substantially vertical left side outer wall 210that is oriented in a front-to-rear direction of the main housing 100, asubstantially vertical right side outer wall 216, and a substantiallyvertical rear outer wall 222 that extends between and connects the walls210, 216. A bottom wall 230 extends between and connects the lower endsof walls 210, 216, 222, and forms a substantially horizontal floorportion 136 of the liquid chamber bay.

In the form shown, the main housing upper chassis 102 peripheral wallarrangement comprises a left side upper wall 114 that extends infront-to-rear direction of the main housing, a right side upper wall 120that extends In a front-to-rear direction of the main housing, and arear laterally extending wall 128 that extends between and connects thewalls 114, 120.

The floor portion 136 of the liquid chamber bay 108 has a recess toreceive a heater arrangement such as a heater plate or other suitableheating element(s) for heating liquid in the liquid chamber 300 for useduring a humidification process.

The liquid chamber bay 108 further comprises opposed guide features inthe form of left side and right side horizontally extending guide rails144, 146 which extend toward a centre of the bay 108 from the respectiveleft and right side inner walls 112, 118 to assist with guiding theliquid chamber 300 into position In the bay 108.

The main housing lower chassis 202 is attachable to the upper chassis102, either by suitable fasteners or integrated attachment features suchas clips for example. When the main housing lower chassis 202 isattached to the main housing upper chassis 102, lower edges of the leftside upper wall 114, right side upper wall 120, and rear laterallyextending wall 128 of the upper chassis engage with the upper edges ofthe left side outer wall 210, right side outer wall 216, and rear outerwall 222 respectively of the main housing lower chassis.

The apparatus has tongue and groove arrangements between components ofthe apparatus to reduce water and oxygen ingress into the unit. Theapparatus advantageously has tongue and groove arrangements between theupper edges of the lower chassis walls and the lower edges of the upperchassis walls. The tongue and groove arrangements provide asubstantially continuous liquid/gas flow-resistant coupling around theperiphery of the upper and lower chassis parts 102, 202. For example,the lower chassis walls may be provided with grooves and the upperchassis walls may be provided with complementary tongues that areconfigured to be at least partly received in the respective grooves whenthe upper and lower chassis parts are assembled together. The continuouscoupling advantageously extends along the front, sides, and at leastmost of the rear of the chassis parts, as shown, including around anycorners between those surfaces.

The described configurations and orientations are examples only, and anysuitable combination of the tongue and groove arrangements and/ororientations of the tongue and groove arrangements may be used in theapparatus.

As shown in FIG. 6, the lower chassis 202 has a motor recess 250 forreceipt of a motor and/or sensor module 400 of the apparatus 10, whichis shown in FIGS. 7 and 8 and will be described in further detail below.The motor and/or sensor module may be removable or non-removable. Arecess opening 251 is provided in the bottom wall 230 adjacent a rearedge thereof, for receipt of the motor/sensor module 400. A continuous,gas impermeable, unbroken peripheral wall 252 or walls is/are integrallyformed with the bottom wall 230 of the lower chassis 202 and extend(s)upwardly from the periphery of the opening 251. The upper edge of theperipheral wall 252 terminates at a ceiling 262. All of the walls andthe ceiling 262 are continuous, gas impermeable, and unbroken, otherthan a tube 264 in the ceiling 262 that forms the gas flow passage forgas to exit the motor and/or sensor module 400, and an aperture 208 inthe wall 252 for receipt of the gases outlet of a gases filter module1001, 2001, 3001, 11001. The tube 264 forming the gas flow passage isintegrally formed with the ceiling 262, with the ceiling surrounding andextending outwardly from the tube 264. Therefore, the entire motorrecess 250 is gas impermeable and unbroken, other than the gas flowpassage and the entrance for the filter module gases outlet.

The tube 264 forming the gas flow passage will extend upwardly through adownward outer extension tube or conduit that is integrally formed witha ledge 132 (FIG. 4) of the upper housing chassis 102. The tube 264extends at least as far as the ledge 132, and may extend to a pointwhere it is vertically higher than the ledge 132. A soft seal such as anO-ring seal (not shown) is located between the exterior of the gas flowpassage tube 264 and the interior of the downward outer extension tube,to provide a seal between the components when assembled. In otherconfigurations, the gas flow passage tube 264 and the downward extensiontube could be configured to be fitted together via an interference orpress fit arrangement while still providing for a seal between thecomponents when assembled. Still other configurations including but notlimited to latch/catch-style fittings and bayonet-style fittings betweenthe gas flow passage tube 264 and the downward extension tube arecontemplated.

The configuration is such that if there is any leaking of gas from themotor or gas flow path following the motor via any seals, the gas willvent to atmosphere rather than ingressing into the interior of the mainhousing that contains the control boards and other electricalcomponents. The electrical components and electronics boards in thehousing are pneumatically isolated from the gas flow path. The only wayfor gas to leak into the portion of the main housing 100 that containsthe electronics boards and other electrical components will be if thereis a physical crack in the housing 100 or another physical component.The pressure in the motor of the motor and/or sensor module 400 upstreamof the impeller may be lower than the pressure in the portion of themain housing 100 that contains the electrical/electronic components,which also assists with any gas leaks venting to atmosphere.

There will be a pressure drop In the gas flow as it moves through thesystem due to the formation of gas turbulence and due to friction (e.g.as gas passes along walls defining the gas passages).

In the motor and/or sensor module 400, the pressure is lowerbefore/upstream of the motor impeller, and the pressure is higherafter/downstream of the motor impeller. An electrical connection will beprovided for the motor upstream of the motor impeller, in the lowerpressure region. If there is a failure In the housing in the portionnear the electrical connection, air will be sucked into the low pressureside.

In an alternative configuration, the motor recess 250 may be separatelyformed from the lower chassis 202. The motor assembly including therecess may be insertable into the recess opening 251 and attachable tothe lower chassis 202. Upon insertion of the motor assembly and recessinto the lower chassis 202, the gas flow passage tube 264 will extendthrough the downward extension tube 133 and be sealed by the soft seal.

In the form shown, the recess 250 comprises a recess opening in a bottomwall of the housing. Alternatively, the recess opening could be in adifferent part of the housing, such as a side, front, or top of thehousing.

The described configuration provides a chamber shaped to receive andcontain a motor and/or sensor module 400 of the apparatus 10 asdescribed below with reference to FIGS. 7 and 8. The interior wall ofthe recess 250 (including but not limited to portions of the peripheralwall 252) may be provided with guides and/or mounting features to assistwith locating and/or attaching the module 400 in the recess 250. Themotor and/or sensor module 400 is a flow generator and comprises a motor402 with an impeller that operates as a blower to deliver gases to thepatient interface 17 via the liquid chamber 300. It will be appreciatedthat the shape of the chamber can vary depending on the shape of themotor/sensor module 400. However, the chamber will be provided withcontinuous, gas impermeable, and unbroken walls and a ceiling to isolatethe gas flow from electrical and electronic components In the mainhousing 100.

With reference to FIGS. 3A and 3B, the removable liquid chamber 300comprises an outer housing 302 defining a liquid reservoir, a liquidchamber gases inlet port 306 in fluid communication with the liquidreservoir, and a liquid chamber gases outlet port 308 in fluidcommunication with the liquid reservoir. A baffle may be providedinternally in the liquid reservoir to define a flow path of gasesthrough the liquid chamber 300. A lower edge of the liquid chamber 300comprises an outwardly directed annular flange 310 which interacts withopposed guide rails 144 in the chamber bay 108 for locating andretaining the liquid chamber 300 in the chamber bay 108. The flange 310extends outwardly from the base of a peripheral wall of the liquidchamber 300. A bottom wall of the liquid chamber 300 is heat conductingand is adapted for resting on a heater plate for heating liquid in theliquid chamber 300.

The apparatus 10 comprises a connection manifold arrangement 320 forfluid coupling of the liquid chamber 300 to the apparatus 10. The liquidchamber 300 can be fluidly coupled to the apparatus 10 in a linearslide-on motion In a rearward direction of the liquid chamber 300 intothe chamber bay 108, from a position at the front of the housing 100 ina direction toward the rear of the housing 100. The connection manifoldarrangement 320 comprises a manifold gases outlet port 322 that is influid communication, via a fixed L shaped elbow 324, with the gas flowpassage from the motor/impeller unit 402 (FIG. 8). A lower portion ofthe elbow 324 that forms a gas flow inlet port or the elbow extendsdownwardly into the interior of the gas flow passage tube 264,preferably to a position below the lower end of the gas flow passagetube 264. A soft seal such as an O-ring seal is provided between theexterior of the lower portion of the elbow and the interior of the gasflow passage tube 264 to seal between those components.

The connection manifold arrangement 320 further comprises a manifoldgases inlet port 340 (humidified gases return) that is embodied in aremovable elbow 342. The removable elbow 342 is L-shaped, and furthercomprises a patient outlet port 344 for coupling to the patientbreathing conduit 16 to deliver gases to the patient interface 17. Themanifold gases outlet port 322, manifold gases inlet port 340, andpatient outlet port 344 each comprise soft seals such as O-ring seals,T-seals, or the like to provide a sealed gases passageway between theapparatus 10, the liquid chamber 300, and the patient breathing conduit16.

The liquid chamber gases inlet port 306 is complementary with theconnection manifold gases outlet port 322, and the liquid chamber gasesoutlet port 308 is complementary with the connection manifold gasesinlet port 340. The axes of those ports are preferably parallel toenable the liquid chamber 300 to be inserted into the chamber bay 108 ina linear movement.

Motor and/or Sensor Module

FIGS. 7 and 8 show a motor and/or sensor module or sub-assembly 400 thatcan be used as a flow generator in the flow therapy apparatus.

The motor and/or sensor module or sub-assembly 400 of the apparatus hasbeen designed as an individual and sealed component. Any seals that arebreached will cause gases such as oxygen to leak to the atmosphererather than into the electronics of the apparatus. The module 400 may bereplaceable, so if a sensor falls the entire module can be replaced. Themodule may only contain electronics relevant to sensing.

The motor and/or sensor module 400 comprises a stacked arrangement ofthree main components; a base 403 of the sub-assembly 400 (on which ispositioned the motor 402 with an impeller that forms a blower), anoutlet gas flow path and sensing layer 420 positioned above the base403, and a cover layer 440. The cover layer 440 and outlet gas flow pathand sensing layer 420 will typically be assembled together in use toform the sensing layer. The gases move through the module 400 from agases inlet, through the blower 402, through the gas flow path andsensing layer 420, and through gases outlet port 452 to be delivered viathe fixed elbow 324 to the liquid chamber 300 a and then via theremovable elbow 342 through the patient gases outlet port 344 of theapparatus. An opening formed between the blower 402 and the outlet gasflow path and sensing layer 420 provides a gases inlet into the moduleand enables the temperature of incoming gases to be measured.

The base 403 comprises a region for receipt of the gas blower motor 402.The region may be concave. The diameter of the concave region isselected to correspond with the shape of the underside of the body ofthe motor 402. The region guides gas flow to the blower. In analternative configuration, the region may be a different shape, forexample a non-concave shape.

The base 403 comprises a plurality of flexible mounts 411. The flexiblemounts act as vibration isolating structures. Engagement plates areretained by the upper casing of the motor/blower 402 body, and provide aslot into which the mounts can slide. Upper ends of the mounts arereceived in complementary receiving portions such as cups In a body 422of the outlet gas flow path and sensing layer 420.

The base 403 and the body 422 of the outlet gas flow path and sensinglayer 420 are provided with complementary securing features 405, 425 tosecure the body 422 to the base 403. Alternatively, a different securingmethod could be used. The base 403 comprises a plurality of verticallyextending members such as posts 407. Body 422 may comprise complementarymembers to engage with the members 407, to prevent rocking of the body422 relative to the base 403. The base 403 and/or body 422 alsocomprise(s) a plurality of locating pins 412 to guide the base and bodytogether during coupling.

A periphery 403B of the base 403 is provided with a recess that receivesa soft seal such as an O-ring seal 403C. The seal 403C seals the module400 against the housing of the apparatus and prevents ambient airentrainment which would bypass the filter. In particular, the seal 403Cseals between the base 403 and the peripheral wall of the recess 250 ofthe apparatus housing. The seal 403C also provides a frictional forcebetween the module 400 and the housing of the apparatus that must beovercome to remove the module 400 from the housing, if the module 400 isremovable.

Once gases enter the module 400 via the inlet region, they move to theblower inlet, which is located underneath the blower 402 in, or above,the concave portion of the base 403. Gases entering the module may actto cool the motor. Gases then move through the blower 402 and exit via ablower gases outlet port. Gases exiting the blower gases outlet portenter a coupling tube or cuff (not shown) which couples the blower gasesoutlet port to a gases inlet port of the outlet gas flow path andsensing layer 420. The cuff directs the gases through an angular changeof about 90 degrees from the blower outlet port to the gases inlet port,but over a short horizontal distance, while minimising pressure drop.

It will be appreciated that the cuff can be configured to direct gasesthrough different angles depending on the required configuration. Inletand outlet ports of the cuff will be sealed to the blower outlet portand gases inlet port using a suitable sealing arrangement; for example,soft seals such as O-ring seals.

The cuff is configured to minimise the pressure drop of the gasespassing though the cuff and to isolate blower vibration from the case ofthe unit in tight space constraints. The cuff is made from a softflexible material and has localised region(s) that act as a diaphragmand serve as vibration isolators. Some regions of the cuff may bethinned out to provide isolation to prevent or minimise any vibrationfrom being transmitted to structural parts. This could be achieved bymoulding thinner section(s) into the cuff. Additionally, oralternatively, a concertina may be provided in the cuff to assist withisolating vibrations from the case of the unit while allowing moremovement of the module 400 in the housing.

The gas flow path and sensing layer 420 comprises a gas flow path withone or more sensors, and the gas flow path is arranged to deliver gas tothe outlet port of the housing.

A body 422 of the gas flow path and sensing layer 420 defines a lowerportion of a sensing and gas flow path. The cover layer 440 has a body442 that defines an upper portion of the sensing and gas flow path, withthe shape of the upper and lower portions of the sensing and gas flowpath corresponding substantially to each other.

A sensing printed circuit board (PCB) may be provided in the gas flowpath and sensing layer 420. At least part of the PCB overlaps with thegas flow path through the gas flow path and sensing layer 420. The PCBis sandwiched between the gas flow path and sensing layer 420 and coverlayer 440. Temperature sensors will be positioned on the portion of thePCB that is within/overlaps with the gas flow path.

Soft seals such as O-ring seals, may be provided to seal between theupper side of the body 422 and the underside of the PCB, and to sealbetween the lower side of the body 442 and the upper side of the PCB.The soft seals seal the high pressure region of the module, as gassespassing through the gas flow path have been pressurised by the blower.The seals prevent gases from escaping and moving towards the electronicsof the apparatus. The soft seals could alternatively be co-moulded tothe bodies, with a soft layer co-moulded onto the more rigid bodies.

The cover layer 440 may be coupled to the gas flow path and sensinglayer 420 using fasteners such as screws. The fasteners sandwich the twosections together, providing a compressive force to seal the soft sealsagainst the PCB board.

Referring to FIGS. 7, 3A, and 3B, once gases have passed through the gasflow path and sensing layer 420, they exit the module 400 via the gasflow outlet port 452 which couples with the gas flow inlet elbow 324. Asoft seal such as an O-ring seal 452A may be provided to seal the gasflow outlet port 452 of the module 400. The soft seal 452A seals againstan inner wall of a downward outer extension tube or conduit of the upperchassis, or another part of the housing. A soft seal such as an O-ringseal may be provided to seal between the elbow 324 and the inner wall ofthe downward extension tube of the upper chassis, or another part of thehousing. The soft seals function to keep the module 400 sealed andreduce the likelihood of the pressurised gases flowing into the housingof the apparatus. The soft seals may be provided in annular grooves inthe gas flow outlet port 452 and the gas flow inlet elbow 324.Alternatively, one of both of those components may be provided withoutwardly directed shoulders to provide a resting surface for thesoft-seals.

In another configuration, a different type of seal may be provided toseal between the gas flow outlet port 452, the gas flow inlet elbow 324,and/or the outer extension tube. For example, rather than using O-rings,face seal(s), foam, or a bellows seal may be used, which will allow forsome relative movement of the components in a direction that is lateralto a gas flow direction through the components without breaking theseal. A seal that enables that movement will not over-constrain themodule 400 when it is in place in the lower chassis, but will enablesealing between the upper surface of the gas flow outlet port 452 andthe bottom surface of the inlet elbow 324, while enabling some lateralmovement between the gas flow outlet port 452 of the module 400 and theinlet elbow 324. If a bellows seal is used to seal between the gas flowoutlet port 452 and the inlet elbow 324, that will enable both somelateral and some axial movement between the gas flow outlet port 452 ofthe module 400 and the inlet elbow 324.

The connection between the gas flow outlet port 452 and gas flow inletelbow 324 is formed outside the motor and/or sensor module 400 such thatany leakage that occurs from this connection will be directed outsidethe housing of the apparatus. The lower chassis extends up around theoutside of the inlet elbow 324, and is formed as a single integral partincluding the wall(s) and ceiling that define the recess 250 and gasflow tube 264. Therefore, in the case of a leak the gas will follow thepath of least resistance, which is to gather outside the leak region andexit to atmosphere via the outside of the inlet elbow 324. It is veryunlikely that gases will flow into the housing and via a tortuous pathto the electronics of the apparatus.

The apparatus 10 has air and oxygen (or alternative auxillary gas)Inlets in fluid communication with the motor 402 to enable the motor 402to deliver air, oxygen, or a suitable mixture thereof to the liquidchamber 300 and thereby to the patient. In some configurations, the gascomprises a blend of oxygen and ambient air. The air and oxygen (orother alternative auxiliary gas) may be delivered to the motor and/orsensor module 400 via the filter module and/or valve moduleconfigurations described below.

3. Filter Module

As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the lower chassis 202 has a filter receptacle300 which defines a cavity for receipt of the filter module 1001, 2001(FIGS. 15 and 16), 3001 (FIGS. 38 to 40), 11001 (FIG. 46). The filtermodule is removably and sealably engageable with the main housing of anapparatus, by engaging with the filter receptacle of the housing. Thefilter module is accessible from an exterior of the main housing. Anupper end 302 of the filter receptacle 300 defines an annular groove 304for receipt of a soft seal 304 such as an O-ring seal or the like. Thesoft seal 304 is arranged to engage with, and provide a seal against, asurface of the upper chassis 102 of the main housing when the upperchassis and lower chassis are assembled. The lower part of the filterreceptacle 300 opens into a valve module housing 306 that forms a recessfor receipt of the valve module 4001, 5001, 6001, 7001, 8001, 9001(FIGS. 17 to 37).

An inner wall of the filter receptacle 300 defines an aperture 208 thatis in fluid communication with a gases outlet of the filter module 1001(FIGS. 10 to 14), 2001, 3001. The aperture 208 directs gases to, ortoward, the motor and/or sensor module 400. In one configuration, theaperture 208 directs gases into the motor recess 250, and the gases arereceived by the motor/impeller 402 from the motor recess. In analternative configuration, the aperture 208 may be fluidly connected toa gases inlet of the motor and/or sensor module 400 by a fluid couplingsuch as a conduit or the like.

The filter receptacle 300 may be integrally formed with the lowerchassis 202 such as by injection moulding or the like. Alternatively,the filter receptacle may be separately formed and attached to the lowerchassis 202.

A first configuration filter module 1001 is shown in FIGS. 10 to 14. Inuse, the filter module is positioned substantially within the casing ofthe main housing and is modular for ease of manufacture, servicing, andreplacement, and may be sold as a consumable part for repeat sale. Thefilter module may be configured to be modularly replaceable by a user onan approximately three monthly basis, or any other appropriate timeperiod depending on factors such as the hours per day of operation ofthe apparatus and the environmental conditions. By replacing only thefilter, cost benefits are provided. The filter module 1001 filters allincoming gases including oxygen and ambient air to prevent or minimisebacteria, dust, and particulates from entering the motor and/or sensormodule 400.

The filter modules described herein are designed and configured tominimise pressure drop across the filter. At least one way in which thisis achieved is by having a large surface area for the gas to passthrough; i.e. a gases outlet port.

The filter module comprises a filter body 1003 that is arranged to bereceived in the filter receptacle 300 by inserting the filter body 1003vertically downwardly into the receptacle from the exterior of the mainhousing of the apparatus. The filter module is located in the gas flowpath between the valve module (described below) and the motor and/orsensor module 400. The filter body 1003 has a shape that iscomplementary to the shape of the filter receptacle 300. While thosecomponents are shown as substantially rectangular with arcuate ends inplan view, they could alternatively be any other suitable shape such assquare or oblong for example. The filter module advantageously has anarrow transverse width so that only a narrow filter receptacle isneeded in the apparatus main housing. Therefore, the filter moduleoccupies minimal space while maintaining a large surface area for gas topass through.

The filter body 1003 has a relatively large main compartment 1005. Themain compartment is defined by at least one main compartment wallbounding a main compartment volume. In the form shown, the maincompartment 1005 is defined by two substantially vertical maincompartment side walls 1013, 1015, a lower wall 1017, and upper wall1019, and a rear wall 1021 of the filter body 1003. The main compartmentis shown as being substantially rectangular in profile shape. However,any suitable shape could be provided. For example, the main compartmentcould be round, elliptical, square, or any other suitable shape.Depending on the shape of the main compartment, the main compartment maybe defined by a rear wall and a single main compartment wall or aplurality of main compartment walls.

The main compartment 1005 is in fluid communication with a maincompartment gases inlet 1009. In the form shown, the main compartmentgases inlet 1009 comprises an aperture in a lower wall 1017 of thefilter body. Alternatively, the main compartment may be in fluidcommunication with a plurality of gases inlets 1009. The maincompartment 1005 will receive gases via the gases inlet(s) 1009. Forexample, the main compartment 1005 may receive a main or primary gas orgases, such as oxygen, ambient air, a combination of oxygen and ambientair, or another suitable gases or combinations or gases via the gasesinlet(s) 1009. The main compartment may receive oxygen and/or ambientair from a valve manifold 4001, 5001, 6001, 7001, 8001, 9001 describedin more detail below. In some configurations, oxygen passes through thevalve manifold 4001, 5001, 6001, 7001, 8001, 9001 and into the filter,and ambient air passes around the valve/valve manifold and into thefilter.

As well as defining the main compartment 1005, the main compartmentwalls 1013, 1015, 1017, and 1019 also define a substantially planar maincompartment gases outlet. The gases outlet of the main compartment isprovided by the opening between the walls 1013, 1015, 1017, 1019opposite to the rear wall 1021. The gases inlet(s) 1009 is/are arrangedso that gases enter the main compartment 1005 in a gas flow direction(along a main compartment gas flow inlet axis) that is substantiallyparallel to the side walls 1013, 1015 of the main compartment, as shownby the large arrow adjacent the gases inlet 1009 in FIG. 10. The gasesoutlet of the main compartment 1005 is arranged so that gases exit themain compartment 1005 in a gas flow direction (along a main compartmentgas flow outlet axis) that is offset from the gas flow inlet axis. Thedirection of gas flow through the gases outlet may be generallytransverse to the direction of gas flow through the gases inlet. In theconfiguration shown, the gas flow direction through the gas flow outletis substantially perpendicular to the rear wall 1021 of the filter body1003. The gas flow outlet could instead be provided in, for example, anend wall of the filter body while still being offset from the gas flowinlet 1009.

Advantages are provided by having the flow turning direction through thefilter. The filter module 1001 is able to be inserted into and removedfrom the top of the apparatus, rather than being clipped onto the side.When the filter module 1001 is installed in the apparatus, thealternative gas supply inlet 1011 is located on the top of theapparatus. The user or medical practitioner may visually observe that analternative gas supply is connected from substantially any point in aroom. The filter module 1001 has a relatively small filter volume andphysical size. As a result, the time it takes for gases to pass throughthe filter module to the blower and sensors is relatively quick. Theshorter the flow path, the lesser the lag between the signal provided tothe valve (i.e. to adjust the oxygen:air proportions) and the oxygen:airproportions detected by the sensors.

The main compartment may include additional walls, baffles, or the liketo direct flow inside the main filter compartment.

The filter body 1003 also has a first relatively small sub-compartment1007. The sub-compartment 1007 is located at least partly within themain compartment 1005.

The sub-compartment 1007 is defined by at least one main compartmentwall bounding a main compartment volume. The sub-compartment 1007 isdefined by two substantially vertical sub-compartment side walls 1023,1025, a lower wall 1027, and a portion of the rear wall 1021 of thefilter body 1003. The sub-compartment is shown as being an elongate.However, any suitable shape could be provided. For example, thesub-compartment could be round, elliptical, square, or any othersuitable shape. Depending on the shape of the sub-compartment, thesub-compartment may be defined by a rear wall and a singlesub-compartment wall or a plurality of sub-compartment walls.

The sub-compartment 1007 is In fluid communication with a firstsub-compartment gases inlet 1011, which forms an alternative gas supplyinlet. That alternative gas supply inlet may receive a secondary oralternative gas such as oxygen, or any other gas or gases, from, forexample: a tube/line from a hospital (or other medical facility) wallsupply rotameter; a tube/line from a nearby gas tank; a tube/line froman oxygen concentrator. By providing sub-compartment(s) In the filter,the use of a plurality of separate filters can be avoided. A single,replaceable filter module can be used to filter gases from multiplesources.

By connecting to the alternative gas supply inlet 1011, the gas supplyis not regulated by the valve module. This is practical where the useror medical practitioner wants to manually control the supply of oxygen(or other gas). When not in use, the alternative gas supply inlet may beclosed with a cap/lid 1103C that is arranged to be substantially flushwith the panel portion 1103 FIG. 50). If there is nothing connected tothe alternative supply inlet 1011, and it is not closed with a cap/lid,ambient air may also be drawn into the alternative gas supply inlet1011.

When the filter module 1001 is installed in the apparatus 10, thealternative gas supply is located on the top of the apparatus. The useror medical practitioner may visually observe that an alternative gassupply is connected from substantially any point in a room.Additionally, it will be visually apparent to a user whether the filteris installed in the apparatus or missing.

It should be appreciated that, in alternative configurations, thealternative gas supply inlet 1011 may be accessible from the side orrear of the apparatus.

In the form shown, the first sub-compartment gases inlet 1011 comprisesan aperture that extends through the upper wall 1019 of the filter bodyand through an inlet connector 1039. Alternatively, the sub-compartment1007 may be in fluid communication with a plurality of gases inlets1011. The sub-compartment 1007 may receive gases from an alternativesupply to that of the main compartment, via the gases inlet 1011 andconnector 1039. For example, the sub-compartment 1007 may receive oxygenor another suitable gases or combinations of gases. The firstsub-compartment gases inlet 1011 may receive gases that have not comefrom a valve module 4001, 5001, 6001, 7001, 8001, 9001, so the gasesreceived from the first sub-compartment gases inlet 1011 are notregulated by the apparatus. For example, the first sub-compartment gasesinlet 1011 may receive oxygen from a wall supply rotameter that can bemanually adjusted by a user. When an alternative oxygen supply is notconnected to the first sub-compartment gases inlet 1011, ambient air maybe drawn through the first sub-compartment gases inlet.

The sub-compartment may be provided in an upper part of the filter body,or may be provided in a different part of the filter body such as a sideor lower part of the filter body.

As well as defining the first sub-compartment 1007, the sub-compartmentwalls 1023, 1025, 1027, also define a substantially planarsub-compartment gases outlet. The gases outlet of the sub-compartment isprovided by the opening between the walls 1023, 1025, 1027, 1019opposite to the rear wall 1021. The gases inlet(s) 1011 is/are arrangedso that gases enter the first sub-compartment 1007 in a gas flowdirection (along a first sub-compartment gas flow inlet axis) that issubstantially parallel to the side walls 1023, 1025 of thesub-compartment, as shown by the top downward directed arrow in FIG. 10.The gases outlet of the first sub-compartment 1007 is arranged so thatgases exit the sub-compartment 1007 in a gas flow direction (along afirst sub-compartment gas flow outlet axis) that is offset from the gasflow inlet 1011 axis. The direction of gas flow through the gases outletmay be generally transverse to the direction of gas flow through thegases inlet. In the configuration shown, the gas flow direction throughthe gas flow outlet of the sub-compartment is substantiallyperpendicular to the rear wall 1021 of the filter body 1003 and issubstantially parallel to the gas flow direction through the gas flowoutlet of the main compartment. When viewed from the position of FIG.12A, the gas flow direction is out of the page. FIG. 12B is aperspective view showing the direction of gas flow out of the filter.FIG. 14 is a fluid model showing gases flow through the tapered filtermodule.

The sub-compartment gas flow outlet could instead be provided in, forexample, an end wall of the filter body while still being offset fromthe first sub-compartment gases inlet 1011.

The sub-compartment walls 1023, 1025, 1027, provide a barrier to directall gases from the gases inlet 1011 through the sub-compartment gasesoutlet and through the filter medium 1051 (described below). Without thesub-compartment 1007, it would be possible for some gases from the firstsub-compartment gases inlet 1011 to pass through the main compartment1005 and out the inlets 1009 (against the flow of incoming maincompartment gases), without passing through the filter medium 1051. Withthe configuration with the sub-compartment, once gases have passed fromthe sub-compartment through the filter medium 1051, they may then onlyescape the system if they were to pass back through the filter medium1051 (against the flow of gases passing through the filter medium) andout the inlets 1009, 1011. Therefore, the sub-compartment 1007substantially enhances the retention and subsequent entrainment of gasesin the system by directing all gases from the sub-compartment gasesinlet 1011 through the filter medium which ensures all gases arefiltered. When the gases entering the system via the sub-compartmentgases inlet comprise oxygen, that enhances entrainment of oxygen in thesystem.

In some configurations, the filter body 1003 may comprise a plurality ofsub-compartments located at least partly within the main compartment1005. In some configurations, the filter body comprises onesub-compartment, two sub-compartments, or three or moresub-compartments. In some configurations, the filter body 1003 may onlyhave a main compartment 1005 and may not have any sub-compartments. Thedifferent sub-compartments may be used to deliver different secondary oralternative gases to the apparatus 10. By way of example only, one ofthe sub-compartments may deliver oxygen and one of the sub-compartmentsmay deliver helix to the apparatus 10. Another example is that one ofthe sub-compartments may deliver oxygen and one of the sub-compartmentsmay deliver ambient air to the apparatus 10.

In some configurations, such as that shown for filter 1001 in FIGS. 10and 11A, the sub-compartment(s) 1007 is/are located entirely within themain compartment 1005. Alternatively, in some configurations, thesub-compartment(s) 1007 is/are located partly externally of the maincompartment 1005. In some configurations, at least one sub-compartmentis located entirely within the main compartment 1005 and at least onesub-compartment is located partly externally of the main compartment1005.

The filter module 1001 seal(s) about an external periphery of the filterbody 1003 to sealingly engage the filter module in the housing of theapparatus. The seals and filter module 1001 are arranged such that gasesentering the apparatus are forced to pass through the filter beforeentering the gas flow path of the apparatus (i.e. before passing to themotor and/or sensor module 400). That is, the housing has a gases outletfor delivering a flow of gas to the patient, a gases inlet, and a sealedgases path between the gases inlet and the gases outlet, where thesealed gases path comprises the filter to filter gases that have beenreceived from the first gases inlet. It will be understood that thefilter comprises the filter body, the gases inlet, the gases outlet, andthe filter medium that is arranged to filter gases in, or exiting, thefilter body.

An upper part of the filter body comprises a transverse upper bodyportion 1031. An underside of the transverse upper body portion 1031provides the wall 1019. An annular recess 1032 is provided around theperiphery of the upper body portion 1031 and is arranged to receive asoft seal such as an O-ring seal or ‘wiper’ seal 1033. The wiper sealmay be integrally formed with the upper body portion 1031. For example,the wiper seal 1033 may be formed as an outwardly projecting flange ofthe body portion material of the filter. The thin material allowssufficient flexibility to form the wiper seal. As another example, theupper body portion 1031 may comprise a compliant material that isovermoulded onto the remainder of the filter body, and that comprisesthe seal 1033 and optionally the components 1037 and 1039. As anotherexample, the seal 1033 may comprise a compliant material that isovermoulded onto the upper body portion 1031. In some configurations,the wiper seal 1033 may taper outwardly; i.e., an outward portion of thewiper seal 1033 may be thinner than a more inward portion of the wiperseal. The soft seal seals between the upper body portion 1031 and thewall of the filter receptacle 300 when the filter body is positioned inthe filter receptacle 300, to provide sealing engagement between thefilter and the filter receptacle and to inhibit bacteria entry into thefilter.

A lower part of the filter body comprises a transverse lower bodyportion 1035. An upper side of the transverse lower body portion 1035provides the wall 1017. An annular recess 1036 is provided around theperiphery of the lower body portion 1035 and is arranged to receive asoft seal such as an O-ring seal or ‘wiper’ seal. The wiper seal may beintegrally formed with the lower body portion 1035. For example, thelower wiper seal may be formed as an outwardly projecting flange of thebody portion material of the filter. The thin material allows sufficientflexibility to form the wiper seal. As another example, the lower bodyportion 1035 may comprise a compliant material that is overmoulded ontothe remainder of the filter body, and that comprises the seal. Asanother example, the seal may comprise a compliant material that isovermoulded onto the lower body portion 1035. In some configurations,the lower wiper seal may taper outwardly; i.e., an outward portion ofthe lower wiper seal may be thinner than a more inward portion of thewiper seal. The soft seal seals between the lower body portion 1035 andthe wall of the filter receptacle 300 when the filter body is positionedin the filter receptacle 300, to provide sealing engagement between thefilter and the filter receptacle and to inhibit bacteria entry into thefilter.

As can be seen from FIG. 11B, the upper and lower body portions 1031,1035 are deeper than the portion of the body that houses the maincompartment 1005 and sub-compartment 1007, so that space is providedbetween the gases outlet ports of the main compartment 1005 and thesub-compartment 1007 and filter medium 1051 (described in more detailbelow) and the wall of the filter receptacle 300. That enables gases toflow out of the main compartment 1005 and sub-compartment 1007 andthrough the filter medium 1051, in the filter receptacle 300, and outthrough the aperture 208 to be delivered to the motor and/or sensormodule 400.

The filter module comprises a filter module top panel 1101 with a panelportion 1103. The filter module top panel is attached or attachable tothe filter body. As shown in FIG. 2A, the left side upper wall 114 ofthe upper chassis 102 of the main housing comprises a recess 114R toreceive the panel portion 1103 of the filter module top panel.

The upper body portion 1031 comprises a plurality of snap-fit connectors1037 for permanently engaging with complementary snap-fit connectors1105 on the filter module top panel 1101. The filter body 1003 and thetop panel 1101 are moulded separately and then permanently assembledtogether. The connectors 1037 are arranged to be received within theconnectors 1105 of the top panel 1101 as shown In FIG. 10, and thesnap-fit connectors 1105, 1037 are provided with positive engagementfeatures such as annular projections and/or recesses to enable thesnap-fit between the connectors. The snap-fit connectors 1105 extenddownwardly from the underside of the panel portion 1103 of the top panel1101. In some configurations, the filter top panel is attachable to thefilter body by way of a snap fit, clips, fasteners, or other suitableattachments. Alternatively, the filter top panel 1101 may be integrallymoulded with the filter body 1003.

As shown in FIGS. 3A and 4, the panel portion 1103 of the filter toppanel 1101 is arranged to be substantially flush with the main housingof the apparatus, and in particular with the left side wall 114, whenthe filter 1001 is engaged with the housing.

The filter top panel 1101 is made from the same material as an adjacentportion of the housing of the apparatus, for example as the left sidewall 114 of the upper chassis. In some configurations, the filter toppanel 1101 and the left side wall 114 of the upper chassis is made ofpolycarbonate or another suitable polymeric material.

In some configurations, the filter top panel 1101 comprises a handlingfeature to aid in insertion and/or removal of the filter module 1001from the filter receptacle 300 of the housing of the apparatus, such aswhen lifting the filter 1001 out of engagement with the filterreceptacle 300. In some configurations, the filter handling featurecomprises a ridge, groove, or grip. The filter handling feature may beprovided at a periphery of the panel portion 1103 of the filter toppanel 1101. For example, the filter handling feature may be provided ata portion of the panel portion 1103 of the filter top panel that isadjacent the angled upper chassis surface 130 that is shown in FIG. 4,to provide access to the handling feature. However, the filter handlingfeature may be provided elsewhere on the filter top panel 1011. In someconfigurations, the filter top panel comprises a plurality of filterhandling features.

An alternative gas supply connector 1039 is in fluid communication withthe sub-compartment and projects upwardly from the upper body portion1031 of the filter body 1003 and provides an alternative gas supplyinlet into the filter body 1003.

That alternative gas supply inlet may receive oxygen, or any other gas,from, for example: a tube/line from a hospital (or other medicalfacility) wall supply rotameter; a tube/line from a nearby gas tank; atube/line from an oxygen concentrator.

By connecting to the alternative gas supply inlet, the gas supply is notregulated by the valve module. This is practical where the user ormedical practitioner wants to manually control the supply of oxygen orother gas. When not in use, the alternative gas supply inlet may beclosed with a closure such as a cap or lid (not illustrated).

If there is nothing connected to the alternative supply inlet, and it isnot closed with a closure, ambient air may also be drawn into it.

When the filter module 1001 is installed in the apparatus, thealternative gas supply is located on the top of the apparatus. The useror medical practitioner may visually observe that an alternative gassupply is connected from any point in a room.

It should be appreciated that, in alternative configurations, thealternative gas supply inlet may be accessible from the side or rear ofthe apparatus.

The connector 1039 comprises a through-passage that provides the gasesinlet 1011 for the first sub-compartment 1007. The alternative gassupply inlet connector 1039 is arranged to be fluidly connected to analternative gas supply line. In the form shown, the connector 1039 is anelongate tapering connector suitable for releasably connectingsemi-rigid gas supply tubes which do not have a complementary endconnector. Such an elongate tapering connector may include one or moregas supply line retention enhancement features. For example, theconnector may comprise a barb at or adjacent and upper end of the gassupply line connector. One example is ‘Christmas tree’ type connectorwith a plurality of barbs, for example. The connector couldalternatively be a different configuration. In the event that theconnector 1039 breaks (i.e. due to excessive force being applied to thealternative gas supply line), the filter module 1001 is advantageouslyreplaceable without having to service the whole apparatus.

As shown in FIG. 11B, the filter top panel 1101 comprises an annularwall 1107 that extends downwardly from the panel portion 1103 and thatforms an opening 1109 that exposes and protectively surrounds the gassupply line connector 1039.

As shown in FIG. 41, a filter engagement tab 1071 with a projection 1073extends from the bottom of the filter body 1003. When the filter 1001 isengaged in the filter receptacle 300, the engagement tab 1071 engages aretention block 330, which is integrally formed in the lower chassis 202as shown in FIG. 41. The filter engagement tab 4071 secures the filtermodule in place in the apparatus. The securement is such that the filtermodule will not be accidentally removed from the apparatus if a gas lineattached to the alternative gas supply connector 1039 is pulled. Arelease tab 4071 with a projection 4073, provided on the valve carrier4051 that is described in more detail below with FIGS. 17, 18, and 19,may be pressed to displace the engagement tab 1071 from the retentionblock 330 and allow removal of the filter module from the filterreceptacle 300. Therefore, the filter module release features can beformed as part of the filter module and valve module, without requiringadditional components. With reference to FIGS. 53 to 55, the filter isreleased by pushing a release tab 13048 (also feature 4071 of FIG. 41).

The filter body may be made from polypropylene or any other suitablematerial.

Referring to FIGS. 11B and 12, a filter medium 1051 is associated withboth the main compartment 1005 and the sub-compartment 1007, and isarranged to filter gases in, or exiting, the main compartment 1005 andthe sub-compartment 1007. In the form shown, the filter medium 1051covers or spans the main compartment 1005 and the sub-compartment 1007.In configurations with a plurality of sub-compartments, the filtermedium may span the main compartment and the plurality ofsub-compartments.

In the configuration shown, the filter medium 1051 is located on anexternal face of the filter body to filter gases exiting the maincompartment 1005 via the main compartment gases outlet, and thesub-compartment 1007 via the sub-compartment gases outlet.Alternatively, in some configurations the filter medium 1051 may bepositioned at least partly within the main compartment 1005 and thesub-compartment(s) 1007 to filter gases In the main compartment and thesub-compartment(s).

The filter medium may be an electrostatic filter medium. Theelectrostatic filter medium may be formed from a synthetic material suchas spun polypropylene which develops an electrostatic charge as air/gaspassing over the filter fibres creates friction. The electrostaticcharge attracts dust, particulates, pollen, dust, mold spores etc—so isparticularly suitable for effectively capturing respiratory irritants.Alternatively, other synthetic electrostatic filter medium material(s),other than polypropylene, may be employed.

During the ultrasonic welding process, the filter medium and the filterbody both melt into each other to create the sealed edge. The materialsmay be the same (i.e. polypropylene), or could have different polymericmaterials, such as polyethylene or polyester filters.

Alternatively, non-electrostatic filter medium material(s) may beemployed. Non-electrostatic filters remove contaminant by a simplemechanical sieving effect—where a contaminant particle will not passthrough openings smaller than the size of the contaminant particleitself.

In some configurations, the filter medium 1051 comprises substantiallythe same material as the filter body 1003. In some configurations, thefilter body 1003 comprises polypropylene material or other suitablepolymeric or synthetic material(s), and the filter medium 1051 comprisesspun polypropylene or other suitable polymeric or synthetic material(s).

In some configurations, the filter medium 1051 comprises a differentmaterial to the material of the filter body 1003. In someconfigurations, the filter medium 1051 comprises wool fibres. The woolmay act as an electrostatic filter medium, as described above. Whenusing a natural fibre, such as wool or cotton, the filter medium doesnot melt, and instead it would be largely the filter body melting intothe filter medium.

When suitable compatible materials are used, the filter medium 1051 maybe ultrasonically welded to the filter body 1003, as shown schematicallyIn FIG. 13. The examples given above (spun polypropylene, polyethyleneor polyester filters, wool fibres, and cotton fibres) are examples ofsuitable materials of the filter medium 1051 that may be ultrasonicallywelded to the filter body 1003. The filter medium is ultrasonicallywelded to the at least one main compartment wall 1013, 1015, 1017, 1019and the at least one sub-compartment wall 1023, 1025, 1027. The maincompartment wall(s) 1013, 1015, 1017, 1019 and the sub-compartmentwall(s) 1023, 1025, 1027 are shaped to provide a large ultrasonic weldarea to provide a stable base for the ultrasonic weld and an increasedarea for the ultrasonic weld, provide enhanced strength of theultrasonic weld, and avoid gaps between the filter medium and the filterbody. The weld area is larger than an area provided by only theperimeter of the filter body. The top left portion of FIG. 13 shows thefilter medium 1051 being ultrasonically welded to a substantiallyflattened ‘n’-shaped wall formation 1023 n, 1025 n, 1027 n of the walls1023, 1025, 1027 of the sub-compartment, between an ultrasonic sonotrode1053 and anvil 1055. The bottom left portion of FIG. 13 shows the filtermedium 1051 being ultrasonically welded to a flange portion 1013 f, 1015f, 1017 f, 1019 f of the walls 1013, 1015, 1017, 1019 of the maincompartment, between an ultrasonic sonotrode 1053 and anvil 1055. If thesame material is used for the filter medium and the filter body, thebond formed during ultrasonic welding is strong due to both bodieshaving a common molecular structure. Ultrasonic welding is advantageousto ensure that the filter medium is sealed with the filter body withoutgaps. It also avoids the bulk of mechanical clips or fasteners, andavoids the use of adhesives.

Rather than being ultrasonically welded to the filter body 1003, thefilter medium could be permanently attached to the filter body in adifferent way, such as by using adhesive or mechanical fasteners forexample. Alternatively, the filter medium may be releasably attached tothe filter body by means of mechanical fasteners, releasable clips, orthe like. Alternatively, the filter medium may be overmoulded onto thefilter body.

At least a portion of the main compartment 1005 tapers inwardly suchthat a portion of the main compartment spaced further from the maincompartment gases inlet 1009 has a smaller dimension than a portion ofthe main compartment adjacent the main compartment gases inlet 1009.Incoming gases may thereby be deflected substantially transverselytoward/through the filter medium 1051. Substantially the entire maincompartment 1051 may taper inwardly. In the form shown in FIGS. 13 and14 for example, the rear wall 1021 of the filter body 1003, which ispositioned on an opposite face of the main compartment to the filtermedium, is angled at an angle α relative to the plane of the maincompartment gases outlet and the filter medium 1051, to provide thetapering of the main compartment. In some configurations, the angle αmay be more than 0° and up to about 45°, or may be more than 0° and upto about 40°, or may be more than 0° and up to about 30°, or may be morethan 0° and up to about 20°, or may be more than 0° and up to about 10°,or may be more than 0° and up to about 5°, or may be between about 1°and about 4°, or may be between about 2° and about 3°. The angled walldeflects incoming gases toward the filter medium and may aid inproviding even distribution of gases across the filter medium. In analternative configuration, only a small part of the main compartmenttapers inwardly. For example, in that configuration, part of the rearwall 1021 may be parallel to the filter medium, and part of the rearwall may be angled relative to the filter medium. In an alternativeconfiguration, the main compartment may not be tapered.

The rear wall of the main compartment of the filter may optionally angleinwardly from bottom to top. The angled wall deflects incoming oxygenand/or air toward the filter medium.

Without the angled rear wall 1021 some oxygen and/or air may enter themain compartment 1005 from the inlets 1009, deflect off the top and sidewalls of the main compartment and recirculate back down toward theinlets 1009. Therefore, the angled rear wall 1021 may aid in theretention and subsequent entrainment of gases in the system by reducingor preventing recirculation, and subsequent loss, of gases from the maincompartment 1005. The angled rear wall 1021 may additionally aid indirecting incoming air and oxygen evenly across the surface area of thefilter.

In an embodiment having sub-compartment(s), at least a portion of thesub-compartment spaced further from the sub-compartment gases inlet 1011may have a smaller dimension than a portion of the sub-compartmentadjacent the sub-compartment gases inlet 1011, to deflect gasessubstantially transversely toward/through the filter medium 1051. Whenthe sub-compartment gases inlet 1011 is positioned opposite to the maincompartment gases inlet 1009, the angles of taper of the sub-compartmentand main compartment may be opposite to each other. Alternatively, thesub-compartment gases inlet may be positioned such that the rear wall ofthe sub-compartment may be co-incident to or co-planar with the rearwall of the main housing. The options outlined above for the maincompartment also apply to the sub-compartment(s).

The filter module 1001 is also configured to minimise pressure drop byhaving one or more of: small gases inlets area to large gases outletsarea; radiuses/rounded edges in the gases inlets and main compartment tosmooth flow, particularly around the smallest gases inlet(s).

FIGS. 15 and 16 show a second configuration filter module 2001. Unlessdescribed below, the features, functionality, options, and advantagesare all as outlined above for the first configuration, and likereference numerals indicate like parts with 1000 added to each numeral.

This filter module comprises a second sub-compartment 2041 at leastpartly within the main compartment 2005. In this configuration, the maincompartment 2005 forms a first compartment, the first sub-compartment2007 forms a second compartment, and the second sub-compartment 2041forms a third compartment. The second sub-compartment 2041 is arrangedto receive gas from a second sub-compartment gases inlet 2045 in a lowerportion 2035 of the filter body 2003; for example, oxygen from the valvemodule. In this configuration, the main compartment 2005 may receiveambient air.

The wall(s) 2043, 2013, 2017 of the second sub-compartment form asubstantially planar gases outlet from the second sub-compartment,through which gases can exit the second sub-compartment in a directionthat is substantially parallel to the gas flow direction through thegases outlets of the main compartment 2005 and the first sub-compartment2007. The filter medium 2051 spans the gases outlet of the secondsub-compartment. The second sub-compartment may have a taperedconfiguration as described for the first sub-compartment.

The filter module 2001 of the second configuration is suitable for usewith a valve module 7001 such as that shown In FIGS. 28 to 30 that hasan oxygen hood/duct 7063 which, in use, is in fluid communication withthe gases inlet 2045. The oxygen hood/duct directs substantially alloxygen or other gases from the valve manifold outlet(s) 7019 of thevalve module 7001 directly into the second sub-compartment, therebyreducing or preventing the loss of oxygen and enhancing entrainmentefficiency.

The walls 2043 of the second sub-compartment provide a barrier to directall oxygen or other gases from the oxygen hood/duct 7063 through thefilter medium 2051.

The features, functioning, and options for the second sub-compartment2041 may be the same as the first sub-compartment 1007, 2007.

Air and oxygen are entrained together after passing through the filtermedium 2051, which spans the main compartment 2005, firstsub-compartment 2007, and second sub-compartment 2041.

Without the second sub-compartment, it would be possible for someportion of oxygen from the valve module 7001 to pass into the mainfilter compartment 2005, deflect off the top and side walls of the mainfilter compartment 2005, recirculate back down toward and out the inlets(against the flow of incoming air), without passing through the filtermedium 2051. With the configuration shown, once oxygen has passed fromthe second sub-compartment through the filter medium 2051, it may thenonly escape the system if it was to pass back through the filter medium2051 (against the flow of gases passing through the filter medium) andout the gases inlets.

Therefore, the second sub-compartment substantially enhances theretention and subsequent entrainment of oxygen in the system bydirecting all oxygen from the oxygen hood/duct 7063 through the filtermedium 2051. The second sub-compartment therefore enhances thereliability and consistency of the oxygen entrainment.

The slope/angle/taper of the rear wall of the second sub-compartment maybe coincident with that of the rear wall 2021 of the main compartment2051. Alternatively, the rear wall of the second sub-compartment may beparallel with the filter medium.

FIGS. 38 to 40 show a third configuration filter module 3001. Unlessdescribed below, the features, functionality, options, and advantagesare all as outlined above for the second configuration, and likereference numerals indicate like parts with 1000 added to each numeral.

The third configuration filter module 3001 includes all the features ofthe second configuration 2001, including a second sub-compartment 3041located within the main filter compartment 3005. The secondsub-compartment is In fluid communication with a filter extension duct3046 that extends from the base of the filter body 3003. The duct 3046may be integrally formed with the filter body 3003 or is separatelyformed from the filter body 3003. The duct 3046 defines the secondsub-compartment gases inlet 3045.

The third configuration filter module 3001 is suitable for use with avalve module 9001 configured to sealingly and fluidly engage the filterextension duct 3046, such as that shown in FIG. 33 to 37D for example.The filter extension duct 3046 receives all oxygen or other gas from thevalve manifold gases outlet 9019, to which it is sealingly engaged. Inthis configuration, the sub-compartment 3041 is sized relative to themain filter compartment 3005 to maximise the area for the ambient air topass through filter. As the valve module 9001 sealingly and fluidlyengages the filter extension duct 3046, the area of the sub-compartment3041 can be smaller than if the valve module was not sealingly engagedwith the filter extension duct.

The walls 3043 of the second sub-compartment 3041 provide a barrier todirect all oxygen from the filter extension duct 3046 through the filtermedium 3051. Air and oxygen is entrained together after passing throughthe filter medium.

Without the second sub-compartment 3041, it would be possible for someportion of oxygen from the valve module 9001 to pass into the mainfilter compartment, deflect off the top and side walls of the mainfilter compartment, recirculate back down toward and out the inlets(against the flow of incoming air), without passing through the filtermedium 3051.

With the configuration shown, once oxygen has passed from the secondsub-compartment 3041 through the filter medium 3051, it may then onlyescape the system if it was to pass back through the filter medium(against the flow of gases passing through the filter medium) and outthe inlets.

Therefore, the second sub-compartment 3041 substantially enhances theretention and subsequent entrainment of oxygen in the system bydirecting all oxygen received via the filter extension duct through thefilter medium 3051. The second sub-compartment therefore furtherenhances the reliability and consistency of the oxygen entrainment.

The slope/angle/taper of the rear wall of the second sub-compartment3041 may be coincident with that of the rear wall 3021 of the maincompartment 3005. Alternatively, the rear wall of the third compartmentmay be parallel with the filter medium.

This configuration also differs in that the snap-fit connectors 3105,3037 provide a non-permanent attachment of the filter body 3003 to thefilter top panel 3101. In this configuration the snap-fit connectors3037 comprise resilient upstands with inwardly-directed projections3037P, and the projections are configured to be received incomplementary recesses 3105R. The engagement between the snap-fitconnectors 3105, 3037 will be adequate to allow the filter module 3001to be removed from the filter receptacle 300 by lifting via the toppanel 3101. However, when the filter module is not engaged with thefilter receptacle 300, the upstands can be flexed to disconnect thefilter body 3003 from the filter top panel 3101, so the filter body canbe replaced without requiring replacement of the filter top panel.

FIG. 46 shows a filter body 11003 of a fourth configuration filtermodule. The other components of the fourth configuration filter moduleare not shown in the drawings, but include all the features of the thirdconfiguration. The filter body 11003 of the fourth configuration filtermodule includes all the features of the filter body 3003 of the thirdconfiguration filter module 3001, including a second sub-compartment11041 located within the main filter compartment 11005.

In this configuration, at least a portion of the first sub-compartment11007 tapers inwardly such that a portion of the first sub-compartment11007 spaced further from the first sub-compartment gases inlet 1111 hasa smaller dimension than a portion of the first sub-compartment 11007adjacent the first sub-compartment gases inlet 1111. With reference toFIG. 46, a depth of the first sub-compartment 11007 spaced further fromthe first sub-compartment gases inlet 1111 is shallower than a portionof the first sub-compartment 11007 adjacent the first sub-compartmentgases inlet 1111. At least a portion of the second sub-compartment 11041tapers inwardly such that a portion of the second sub-compartment 11041spaced further from the second sub-compartment gases inlet 11045 has asmaller dimension than a portion of the second sub-compartment 11041adjacent the second sub-compartment gases inlet 11045. With reference toFIG. 46, the depth of the second sub-compartment 11041 spaced furtherfrom the second sub-compartment gases inlet 11045 is shallower than adepth of the second sub-compartment 11041 adjacent the secondsub-compartment gases inlet 11045. These tapers decrease the pressuredrop and noise of the gas (for example, oxygen) as it flows through thesub-compartments 11007, 11041.

In this configuration, the snap-fit connectors 11037 provide anon-permanent attachment of the filter body 11001 to the filter toppanel. In this configuration the snap-fit connectors 11037 compriseresilient upstands with outwardly-directed projections 11037P, and theprojections are configured to be received in complementary recesses. Theengagement of the snap-fit connectors 10037 will be adequate to allowthe filter module 11001 to be removed from the filter receptacle 300 bylifting via the top panel, in a similar manner to the thirdconfiguration of the filter module.

Adjacent each snap-fit connectors 11037 is a spacer 11037S. The spacers11037S ensure the position of the filter is correct so that the filteris not squeezed over to one side with the seal being broken or leakingon the other side.

The rear wall 11021 of the filter body 11003 has a pair of projections11090 that provide an area for attaching the filter medium to the filterbody 11003. The projections are preferably ultrasonic weld features thatprovide increased surface area for attaching the filter medium 11003.The projections 11090 are positioned generally centrally along thelength of the filter body 11003 and are spaced apart from each otheracross the width of the filter body 11003. The projections 11090 areshaped as a cross. The projections 11090 support the filter medium tohelp achieve a consistent filter height. The projections 11090 areintegrally moulded with the filter body 11003. The projections 11090 maybe placed elsewhere on the filter body 11003, there may be only onemoulded projection, there may be three or more moulded projections, themoulded projections may have other shapes. Other shapes include circlesor rectangles, for example. The projections have been described asproviding ultrasonic weld features. However, the projections may also beused with other attachment mechanisms, such as adhesive.

As described In relation to the first configuration filter module, thefourth configuration filter module may have a seal 11033 comprising acompliant material that is overmoulded onto the upper body portion11031. In some configurations, the wiper seal 11033 may taper outwardly;i.e., an outward portion of the wiper seal 11033 may be thinner than amore inward portion of the wiper seal. The soft seal seals between theupper body portion 11031 and the wall of the filter receptacle 300 whenthe filter body is positioned in the filter receptacle 300, to providesealing engagement between the filter and the filter receptacle and toinhibit bacteria entry into the filter.

A lower part of the filter body comprises a transverse lower bodyportion 11035. An upper side of the transverse lower body portion 11035provides the wall 11017. An annular recess 11036 is provided around theperiphery of the lower body portion 11035 and is arranged to receive asoft seal such as an O-ring seal or ‘wiper’ seal. The wiper seal may beintegrally formed with the lower body portion 11035. For example, thelower wiper seal may be formed as an outwardly projecting flange of thebody portion material of the filter. The thin material allows sufficientflexibility to form the wiper seal. As another example, the lower bodyportion 11035 may comprise a compliant material that is overmoulded ontothe remainder of the filter body, and that comprises the seal. Asanother example, the seal may comprise a compliant material that isovermoulded onto the lower body portion 11035. In some configurations,the lower wiper seal may taper outwardly; i.e., an outward portion ofthe lower wiper seal may be thinner than a more inward portion of thewiper seal. The soft seal seals between the lower body portion 11035 andthe wall of the filter receptacle 300 when the filter body is positionedin the filter receptacle 300, to provide sealing engagement between thefilter and the filter receptacle and to inhibit bacteria entry into thefilter.

The following outlines exemplary areas of gases inlets and gases outletsof the third configuration filter module 3001, with reference to FIG.40.

In some configurations, a ratio of the area A of the firstsub-compartment 3007 gases inlet 3011 to the area B of the firstsub-compartment gases outlet may be between about 1:5 and about 1:80,may be between about 1:10 and 1:40, and may be about 1:20. For example,area A may be 15 square millimetres and area B may be 75 squaremillimetres, or area A may be 4 square millimetres and area B may be 320square millimetres, or area A may be 7 square millimetres and area B maybe 140 square millimetres.

In some configurations, a ratio of the area D of the main compartment3005 gases inlet 3009 to the area C of the main compartment 3005 gasesoutlet may be between about 1:10 and about 1:40, may be between about1:15 to about 1:30, may be between about 1:20 and about 1:25, and may beabout 1:22.7. For example, area D may be 400 square millimetres and areaC may be 4000 square millimetres, or area D may be 150 squaremillimetres and area C may be 6000 square millimetres, or area D may be220 square millimetres and area C may be 5000 square millimetres.

In some configurations, a ratio of the area F of the secondsub-compartment 3041 gases inlet 3045 to the area E of the secondsub-compartment 3041 gases outlet may be between about 1:5 and about1:80, may be between about 1:10 and about 1:40, may be between about1:20 and about 1:25, and may be about 1:23.3. For example, area F may be12 square millimetres and area B may be 60 square millimetres, or area Fmay be 3 square millimetres and area E may be 240 square millimetres, orarea F may be 4.5 square millimetres and area E may be 105 squaremillimetres.

While these exemplary areas and ratios are described with reference tothe third configuration filter module 3001, they are also applicable tothe other configuration filter modules described herein. By providingfilters 1001, 2001, 3001, 11001 with relatively large gases outlets andrelatively small gases inlets, pressure drop across the filter(s) isminimised.

In some configurations, the filter may be a double-sided filter, withopposed gases outlets on opposite sides of the filter body. Filtermedium(s) may be provided on two opposing faces of the filter to filtergases exiting the two opposed gases outlets from thecompartments/sub-compartments. Air and/or gases may exit the filter bodyon the opposing sides/of the filter module. This may further reducepressure loss and increase the filter life due to the increased filtersurface area. In some configurations, the ratios may be double thosedescribed above.

In the configurations shown, a ‘sheet’ of filter medium is provided on aface of the filter body. Alternatively, the filter medium may be pleatedto provide additional filter medium surface area.

In the form shown, a main compartment and a second compartment areprovided in the filter body. A function of the second compartment is toprevent oxygen from the alternative oxygen supply inlet from passing outthe inlets in the bottom of the main compartment of the filter body. Thecompartments also function to dampen noise generated by turbulence (i.e.as gases pass through the valve manifold or filter module inlets etc) bydirecting the gases through the filter medium.

Alternatively, a non-closed compartment, baffle(s), barriers, channels,or the like, may be employed within the main compartment to redirect orrecirculate incoming oxygen from the alternative supply inlet to asimilar effect.

The described filters 1001, 2001, 3001, 11001 are able to filter gasesfrom multiple sources, which avoids the use of multiple filters fordifferent sources. Filter configurations having gases inlet portslocated in different parts of the filter (e.g. the top and bottom of thefilter body) provide particular versatility by enabling coupling ofgases sources from above and below the apparatus housing.

4. Valve Module

FIGS. 2A, 2B, 3B, 4, 6, 10, and 17 to 22 show a first configurationvalve module 4001. The valve module 4001 controls the flow of oxygenand/or other gases entering the gas flow path of the apparatus 10, andenables the apparatus 10 to regulate the proportion of oxygen entrainedin the airflow. The valve module is formed as a modular unit for ease ofmanufacture, assembly, servicing, or replacement, for example in theevent of malfunction, routine maintenance, or futureupgrade/improvement.

The valve module 4001 inserts vertically In an upward direction into thevalve module receptacle 306 in the lower chassis 202 of the mainhousing. In alternative configurations, the valve module may beinsertable In a different direction into the housing, such as a forwarddirection, downward direction, rearward direction, or side direction.The valve module 4001 is removably engageable with the main housing ofthe apparatus, such that the valve module 4001 is substantially receivedin the housing and is accessible from the exterior of the housing. Partof the valve module 4001 is arranged to be substantially flush with anexternal wall of the housing when the valve module is removably engagedwith the housing.

Because the valve module is modular and is accessible from the exteriorof the housing, the valve module can be replaced without significantdisassembly of the apparatus 10 and without compromising seals of thehousing of the apparatus. Because the valve module 4001 is substantiallyreceived within the housing, when the valve module is engaged with thehousing it becomes integrated with the housing and does not increase thesize or bulk of the housing. Additionally, the components of the valvemodule such as the valve 4003 and valve manifold 4011 described beloware protected in use because they are positioned within the valvecarrier 4051 and main housing of the apparatus in use. Thisconfiguration significantly reduces the likelihood of damage of thevalve module and valve module components if the apparatus 10 isinadvertently knocked or dropped.

The valve module comprises a flow control valve 4003 that is arranged tocontrol a flow of gas through a valve manifold 4011. The valve isarranged to control a flow of gas into part of the apparatus. Forexample, the valve may be arranged to control a flow of gas to a filtermodule 1001, 2001, 3001, 11001. Alternatively, the valve 4003 may bearranged to control a flow of gas to another part of the apparatus. Thevalve module 4001 and filter module 1001, 2001, 3001, 11001 arepositioned upstream of the blower 402 and motor and/or sensor module400. In some embodiments, the valve module 4001 and filter module 1001,2001, 3001, 11001 are positioned downstream of the blower 402.

The valve 4003 comprises a cylindrical body 4005 and a valve member inthe body.

The flow control valve could be a solenoid valve, could be motor-driven,or could be piezo-operated for example.

In a solenoid valve, the valve member is actuated between open andclosed positions. The solenoid valve may be a proportional valve. Theextent of gas flow through the valve (i.e. due to the size of the valveopening) is relative to the electrical current supplied to the valve.

Alternatively, the solenoid valve may be controlled with a modulatedinput signal, so that the valve is modulated between open and closedpositions.

The valve 4003 could be a needle valve, plunger valve, gate valve, ballvalve, butterfly valve, globe valve, etc. The valve may be of thepressure compensated type.

In some configurations, the valve is a normally-closed valve; that is,the valve is closed when powered off. That will prevent a connected gassupply line continuously releasing oxygen or other gas when theapparatus is powered off. In some alternative configurations, the valveis a normally-open valve.

In some configurations, the valve 4003 is an electrically actuatedproportional solenoid valve. For example, the valve may be a μProp valveavailable from Staiger GmbH & Co. KG of Erligheim, Germany, may be anAsco 202 series Preciflow valve available from Emerson/Asco Valves ofNew Jersey, or may be any other suitable type of valve.

The valve may have a coaxial inlet-outlet configuration.

The valve module 4001 comprises a valve manifold 4011 which has a body4013 defining a gas flow path 4015 between a valve manifold gases inlet4017 and one or more valve manifold gases outlets 4019. The gases inlet4017 of the valve manifold is axially located at or toward an end of thevalve manifold. In some configurations the valve manifold 4011 has asingle gases outlet 4019, which is radially located on the valvemanifold. In some configurations, the valve manifold 4011 comprises aplurality of valve manifold gases outlets 4019 that are radially locatedabout the valve manifold. The valve manifold outlets 4019 are arrangedto deliver gases from the valve manifold gases inlet 4017 to a gasesinlet of the filter module 1001, 2001, 3001, 11001. The radialarrangement of outlet(s) 4019 assists with directing oxygen (or othergas) towards the filter module, minimising loss of oxygen and enhancingentrainment efficiency. The valve 4003 is arranged to control a flow ofgas from the valve manifold gases inlet 4017 to the valve manifold gasesoutlet(s) 4019. When the valve is ‘closed’, gas flow from the gasesinlet 4017 to the gases outlet(s) 4019 is prevented. When the valve is‘open’, gas flow from the gases inlet 4017 to the gases outlet(s) 4019is enabled.

An end 4018 of the valve manifold 4011 opposite to the gases inletreceives and sealingly engages with the valve 4003 such that the valveand valve manifold are in fluid communication. Referring to FIG. 20, theend 4018 comprises a flange 4023 to mount to the valve. The flange 4023has apertures 4023A to receive fasteners 4023F to fasten the manifold tothe valve 4003. O-ring(s) may be provided about the periphery of theinterface between the valve 4003 and the valve manifold 4011 tosealingly engage the valve with the valve manifold.

The valve manifold 4011 has a shape that is complementary to the shapeof the valve 4003. In some configurations, the valve manifold 4011 has asubstantially cylindrical body, and the valve 4003 has a substantiallycylindrical body. Alternatively, the valve manifold and valve may havedifferent shapes, such as block, square, rectangular, ornon-cylindrical. The configuration shown is lighter and cheaper tomanufacture than a heavy block manifold. For example, the substantiallycylindrical manifold body may be formed from a continuous cylindricalrod that is fed into an automatic production machine. The valve manifoldmay be made using any suitable technique, such as CNC lathe or millproduction for example.

The valve manifold 4011 directs/disperses oxygen from the valve viaradially located gases outlets 4019. In some embodiments, a single gasesoutlet 4019 is provided in the valve manifold. As oxygen passes throughthe outlet(s), noise is generated. Because the apparatus may be used inmedical and/or home environments in close proximity to the patient, itis desirable to minimise the noise produced.

Sound frequency and volume depend on the shape and number of oxygenoutlets and the relationship therebetween. The radial valve manifoldgases outlet(s) 4019 may be aeroacoustically shaped to reduce noise. Forexample, as shown in FIG. 21, the valve manifold gases outlet(s) may beone or, or a combination of, cylindrical through-holes 4019A,frustoconical 4019B, or flared 4019C in shape. The frustoconical andflared shapes may be such that the cross-sections enlarge In thedirection of gas flow through the outlet(s) 4019.

Additionally, or alternatively, a hood, duct, or channel may be formedaround, in proximity to, or in fluid communication with the valvemanifold outlet(s) 4019 in order to reduce noise. Additionally and/oralternatively, foam, or the like, may be placed around the valvemanifold, in proximity to the valve manifold outlets, to reduce noise.

A small filter may be provided inside the valve manifold gases inlet4017 inlet to prevent the introduction of dust or particulates into thevalve.

An end of the valve manifold corresponding to the gases inlet 4015 isarranged to receive and connect to a connector 4031. In the form shown,the connector 4031 is a swivel connector. Alternatively, the connector4031 may be arranged such that a gases inlet 4033 of the connector canmove in a different way, such as a translational movement or pivotingmovement for example.

The valve manifold and swivel connector may be threaded to engage thecomponents together. The swivel connector 4031 has a gases inlet 4033that is oriented substantially transversely relative to a longitudinalaxis LA of the valve manifold, and that is in fluid communication, by agas flow path 4037, with a swivel connector gases outlet 4039. The gasesinlet 4033 of the swivel connector is formed in a transversely extendingconduit/coupling 4035 that is fluidly connectable to a gas supply line.For example, the conduit/coupling 4035 may connect to a gas supply lineconnector to deliver gases such as oxygen to the valve manifold. The gassupply line connector can be chosen depending on the country of use; forexample, DISS and NIST medical gas connectors would typically be used inUSA and Europe respectively. The swivel connector 4031 is arranged toprovide a fluid connection between the gas supply line and the gasesinlet 4017 of the valve manifold.

With reference to FIG. 10, the portion of the swivel connector carryingthe gases inlet 4033 is arranged to rotate about the portion of theswivel connector carrying the gases outlet 4039, about the longitudinalaxis LA of the valve manifold 4011. The swivelling structure isself-contained in the swivelling connector. Suitable bearings, seals,and aperture are provided between the two portions of the swivelconnector to enable that rotation to occur.

The gases inlet 4033 of the swivel connector may be orientedsubstantially perpendicularly relative to the longitudinal axis LA ofthe valve manifold as shown. Alternatively, the gases inlet 4033 couldbe oriented at a different substantially transverse angle relative tothe longitudinal axis LA of the valve manifold.

In some configurations, the gases inlet of the swivel connector isrotatable through up to about 190 degrees about the longitudinal axis ofthe valve manifold, or through up to about 180 degrees about thelongitudinal axis of the valve manifold, or through up to about 160degrees about the longitudinal axis of the valve manifold, or through upto about 120 degrees about the longitudinal axis of the valve manifold,or through up to about 90 degrees about the longitudinal axis of thevalve manifold, or through up to about 60 degrees about the longitudinalaxis of the valve manifold, or through up to about 45 degrees about thelongitudinal axis of the valve manifold.

In some configurations, the gases inlet 4033 that is fluidly connectableto the gas supply line is movable between a substantially horizontalposition and a substantially vertical position, relative to the housing.In some configurations, the substantially horizontal position is a side,forward, or rearward position. In some configurations, the substantiallyvertical position is an upward or downward position. In someconfigurations, the substantially horizontal position is a side positionand the substantially vertical position is a downward position.

As shown in FIGS. 2A, 2B, and 4 for example, when the valve module 4001is mounted in the lower chassis 202, the conduit/coupling 4035 mayproject from the side or bottom of the lower chassis 202, or anywheretherebetween. The swivel connector 4031 allows for easier positioning ofthe gas supply line (i.e. when the apparatus 10 is on a medical standsuch that the inlet may be best positioned vertically or on a bench topsuch that the inlet may be best positioned horizontally). As a result,the swivel connector 4031 may prevent bending of the gas supply line. Itwill be appreciated that the valve module 4001 could be provided in adifferent part of the apparatus housing, such as in a top, side, rear,or front of the housing for example.

The swivel connector additionally reduces the force exerted on theapparatus housing by the connected gas supply line. For example, whenthe apparatus is mounted on a pole, the weight of the hanging tube mayplace a strain on the apparatus. The swivel connector enables the gassupply line to be directed out of the way and secured to the pole.

In the event of a sudden knock to the coupling 4035 or snag to the gassupply line connected thereto, for example, the swivel connector wouldmost likely rotate before transferring force to the valve module andhousing. As a result, the swivel connector assists with avoiding damageto the apparatus. In addition, the valve carrier may have one or moreguards 10085, 10086, 10087 to prevent damage to the main apparatushousing. FIG. 43 shows the valve carrier having three guards 10085,10086, 10087 that extend along the edges of the valve carrier that theswivel might strike, preventing the swivel striking the main apparatushousing. The guards 10085, 10086, 10087 are shown as integral featuresof the valve carrier parts. Alternatively, the guards 10085, 10086,10087 may be separate features that are attached to the valve carrier.

In the event of damage to the valve module, the valve module isreplaceable without requiring disassembly of the overall apparatus.

The valve module 4001 is located at the start of the flow path of theapparatus. If the valve 4003 was to be obstructed (i.e. by dust,particulate, etc.) such that it would be held open, excess pressurisedoxygen or other gas would ‘dump’ out ambient air entry opening(s) in thevalve carrier 4051 (e.g. the opening shown beneath the swivel connectorIn FIG. 18). This would prevent any excess pressure reaching thepatient. As such, the system may be considered inherently pressurelimited without the use of a pressure relief valve.

The valve module 4001 comprises a valve carrier 4051 that substantiallycontains and supports the valve 4003, the valve manifold 4011, and theswivel connector 4031. The valve carrier 4011 is removably engageablewith the housing of the apparatus. An exterior part of the valve carrieris arranged to be substantially flush with an external wall of theapparatus housing when the valve module is removably engaged with thehousing.

The valve carrier 4051 may be sacrificial, so that in instances ofexcessive stress, the valve carrier fails before the main apparatushousing.

The valve carrier 4051 comprises a first, lower valve carrier part 4053and optionally, a second, upper valve carrier part. The valve, valvemanifold, and swivel connector are secured in place at least partlybetween the first valve carrier part 4053 and the second valve carrierpart and are fixed relative to the valve carrier (other than theswivelling gases inlet 4033). In an alternative configuration, the firstvalve carrier part may comprise a first side part and the second valvecarrier part may comprise a second side part. In an alternativeconfiguration, the valve, valve manifold, and swivel connector may becoupled to, and in secured in place by, the lower valve carrier part4053.

The valve carrier 4051 may be retained in the recess of the housing byfasteners, a permanent or temporary snap-fit, or any other suitable way.

The valve carrier comprises supporting structure 4057 to support thevalve, valve manifold, and swivel connector. The supporting structuremay comprise, one, two, or more supports to support the valve, valvemanifold, and swivel connector.

The valve carrier comprises sleeves 4059 to receive fasteners to fastenthe first and second valve carrier parts 4053 together and/or to fastenthe valve carrier to the main housing of the apparatus. In the formshown in FIGS. 17 and 20, the sleeves also receive flattened surfaces4021 of the valve manifold 4011 to prevent rotation of the valvemanifold 4011 in the valve carrier, which could otherwise be caused byrotation of the swivel connector 4031.

Additional or alternative supporting structure could be provided, suchas integrally moulded ribs and/or other features to provide structuralsupport to the valve carrier—particularly against movement of an oxygenor gas line or hose attached to the swivel connector.

Opening(s) 40510 are provided in the valve carrier 4051 to allow ambientair to be drawn in to the gas flow path of the apparatus. The ambientair flow path passes near or adjacent to the valve. In the form shown,the opening 40510 is located around the gases inlet of the swivelconnector. Additionally, or alternatively, the opening may be locatedelsewhere in the valve carrier. When the blower motor 402 of theapparatus is operated, that will create suction through the filtermodule and valve module, to suck ambient air into the apparatus. Theambient air flow path passes through the valve module and allows ambientair to be entrained with the flow of gas from the flow control valve.The ambient air flow path has a gas outlet adapted to deliver ambientair such that it flows past one or more temperature sensors of theapparatus for delivering a flow of gas.

The apparatus may simultaneously draw In gas from the gases inlet of thevalve manifold and ambient air, or the pressurisation of gas from thegases inlet may force that gas through the filter. The gases will exitthe valve module and enter the gases inlets In the filter. The apparatusmay be configured such that the gas from the gases inlet and the ambientair are dynamically entrained/mixed in the apparatus prior to beingdelivered to the gases outlet of the apparatus.

The valve module may be configured to minimise pressure drop across thevalve module by having one or more of: the large opening 40510 forambient air located around the swivel connector and/or elsewhere;radiuses/rounded/sloped edges In the flow path (i.e. Inside the valvemanifold, for example) to minimise turbulence and smooth flow.

This valve module 4001 and the other valve modules 5001, 6001, 7001,8001, 9001 described herein are arranged to directly couple with thefilters 1001, 2001, 3001, 11001 to provide a gas flow path from thevalve module to the filter. A hose connection is not required betweenthe valve module and the filter module. This minimises the size of thecomponents and makes it easy to connect and disconnect the modular valvemodule and filter module.

FIGS. 24 and 25 show a second configuration valve module 5001. Unlessdescribed below, the features, functionality, options, and advantagesare all as outlined above for the first valve module configurationabove, and like reference numerals indicate like parts with 1000 addedto each numeral.

The above first configuration valve module 4001 utilises a fixed valvemanifold 4011 with a swivel connector 4031 attached. This secondconfiguration valve module 5001 differs in that the valve manifold 5011swivels/rotates within the valve carrier 5051, the valve 5003 isrotatable with the valve manifold 5011, and a gas supply line mayconnect directly to the gases inlet 5015 of the valve manifold. Thevalve manifold 5011 and valve 5003 are rotatable inside swivel bearings5061 that are provided between the valve and valve manifold and thevalve carrier 5051. Alternatively, the valve manifold 5011 and valve5003 may be configured to rotate within, and may be supported and/orheld in place by, ribs or other integrally moulded support features inthe valve carrier 5051.

The valve manifold gases inlet 5015 extends substantially transverselyrelative to a longitudinal axis of the valve manifold, and is fluidlyconnectable to a gas supply line, and the valve and valve manifold arerotatable relative to the valve carrier about the longitudinal axis LAof the valve manifold 5011.

The valve manifold gases inlet 5015 may extend in a substantiallyperpendicular direction relative to the longitudinal axis LA of thevalve manifold. In some configurations, the valve manifold gases inletcould be oriented at a different substantially transverse angle relativeto the longitudinal axis of the valve manifold.

In some configurations, the valve 5003 and valve manifold 5011 arerotatable relative to the valve carrier through up to about 190 degreesabout the longitudinal axis of the valve manifold, or through up toabout 180 degrees about the longitudinal axis of the valve manifold, orthrough up to about 160 degrees about the longitudinal axis of the valvemanifold, or through up to about 120 degrees about the longitudinal axisof the valve manifold, or through up to about 90 degrees about thelongitudinal axis of the valve manifold, or through up to about 60degrees about the longitudinal axis of the valve manifold, or through upto about 45 degrees about the longitudinal axis of the valve manifold.

This configuration eliminates the need for a separate swivel connector.As a separate swivel connector is not required, the gas flow path hasfewer disturbances—such as at the point at which the separate swivelconnector connects to the valve manifold. As a result, the rotating orswivelling valve manifold 5011 provides a simpler flow path inside thevalve manifold 5011.

FIG. 26 shows a third configuration valve module 6001. Unless describedbelow, the features, functionality, options, and advantages are all asoutlined above for the second valve module configuration above, and likereference numerals indicate like parts with 1000 added to each numeral.

In this configuration, the valve manifold 6011 swivels/rotates withinthe valve carrier 6051. The valve 6003 is rotatable with the valvemanifold 6011. A gas supply line may connect directly to the gases inlet6015 of the valve manifold. The valve carrier 6051 includes flowchannels 6054 adjacent the valve manifold outlets 6019 to direct flowupward toward a flow channel duct, which may be in the form of a housingsimilar to that shown in the configuration of FIGS. 28 and 29 anddescribed in more detail below.

The valve manifold 6011 is configured to swivel or rotate within, andmay be supported and/or held in place by, ribs or other integrallymoulded support features in the valve carrier 6051.

This configuration eliminates the need for a separate swivel connector.As a separate swivel connector is not required, the gas flow path hasfewer disturbances—such as at the point at which the separate swivelconnector connects to the valve manifold. As a result, the rotating orswivelling manifold provides a simpler flow path inside the valvemanifold 6011.

The flow channels that direct oxygen or other gases upward from themanifold gases outlets 6019 upward toward the filter 1001, 2001, 3001,11001 reduce or prevent the loss of oxygen from the system. As a result,oxygen entrainment efficiency is enhanced.

The flow channels 6054 and flow channel duct are examples of flowguiding structure that can be used in the valve modules describedherein. The flow guiding structure is arranged to direct gas flow fromthe valve manifold gases outlet(s) toward a filter when the valve moduleis removably engaged with the apparatus housing. In some configurations,the flow guiding structure comprises an annular housing that surrounds aplurality of valve manifold gases outlets, wherein the flow guidingstructure comprises a gases outlet that is In fluid communication with agases inlet of the filter.

FIGS. 28, 29, and 30 show a fourth configuration valve module 7001.Unless described below, the features, functionality, options, andadvantages are all as outlined above for the first valve moduleconfiguration above, and like reference numerals indicate like partswith 3000 added to each numeral.

In this configuration, the valve manifold 7011 remains fixed stationary,and a gas supply line connects to the valve manifold 7011 via a swivelconnector 7031. The valve carrier includes flow guiding structure thatis arranged to direct gas flow from the valve manifold gases outlet(s)toward a filter when the valve module is removably engaged with theapparatus housing. In particular, flow channels 7054 adjacent the valvemanifold outlets 7019 direct flow upward toward a flow channel oxygenhood duct 7063, to direct oxygen from the flow channels upward towardthe filter 2001. The flow channels 7054 are provided in the lower valvecarrier part 7053 and the duct 7063 is provided separately from thelower valve carrier part but couples to the flow channels 7054. In someconfigurations, the duct 7063 could be provided by a housing in an uppercarrier part of the valve carrier 7051. The duct 7063 engages with theupper ends of the flow channels 7054. The upper opening of the flowchannel duct 7064, in use, abuts or seals against the filter bodyinlet(s) 2009 to direct substantially all oxygen from the valve module7001 into the filter module 2001. This aids in preventing loss of oxygenin the system—subsequently enhancing oxygen entrainment efficiency.

In this configuration, oxygen entrainment in the air flow is enhanced bythe flow channels 7054 and duct 7063 directing oxygen flow upward towardthe filter.

FIG. 31 shows a fifth configuration valve module 8001. Unless describedbelow, the features, functionality, options, and advantages are all asoutlined above for the first valve module configuration above, and likereference numerals indicate like parts with 4000 added to each numeral.

In this configuration, the valve manifold 8011 remains stationary in thevalve carrier 8051. By comparison with the first, second, third andfourth configurations, the electrically actuated valve 8003, valvemanifold 8011, and swivel connector 8031 are reoriented 180°. This issuch that, when assembled with the apparatus 10, the swivel connectorprotrudes from the unit near the point at which the apparatus 10 ismounted to a pole stand 8601 via a mounting 8603 that may be integrallyformed with the main housing of the apparatus 10 or separately formedand attached to the main housing.

A gas supply line, such as an oxygen supply line, connects to the valvemanifold 8011 via the swivel connector 8031.

The valve manifold 8011 has a single manifold gases outlet. A flowchannel duct 8063 directs oxygen from the single manifold outlet upwardtoward the filter 2001. The upper opening of the flow channel duct, inuse, abuts or seals against the filter body inlet(s) 2009 to directsubstantially all oxygen from the valve module 8001 into the filtermodule 2001. This aids In preventing the loss of oxygen from thesystem—subsequently enhancing oxygen entrainment efficiency.

In this configuration, oxygen entrainment in the air flow is enhanced bythe duct 8063 directing oxygen flow upward toward the filter 2001. Thisprovides for more reliable and consistent oxygen entrainment.

Portion 8035 of the swivel connector 8031 protrudes from the housing ofthe apparatus 10 near the point at which the housing unit is mounted tothe pole stand 8601. The position of the swivel connector thereforeenables positioning of the gas supply line such that it may runsubstantially adjacent the pole of the pole mount. This may avoid thegas supply line extending substantially away from the pole stand suchthat it may catch or drag on nearby objects. This may also avoid kinkingof the gas supply line. Having the swivel connector positioned near thepole also allows a user to secure the gas supply line to the pole toprovide strain relief.

FIGS. 33 to 36 and 37 show a sixth configuration valve module 9001.Unless described below, the features, functionality, options, andadvantages are all as outlined above for the fifth valve moduleconfiguration above, and like reference numerals indicate like partswith 1000 added to each numeral.

Like the first, fourth and fifth configurations, the valve manifold 9011remains stationary In the valve carrier 9051. As with the sixthconfiguration, portion 9035 the swivel connector protrudes from theapparatus 10 near the point at which the apparatus is mounted to a polestand.

A gas supply line, such as an oxygen supply line, connects to the valvemanifold 9011 via the swivel connector 9031.

The valve manifold has a single manifold gases outlet 9019. The singlemanifold gases outlet 9019 sealingly receives a filter extension duct3046, which is integrally formed with the filter module 3001.Substantially all oxygen from the valve assembly will be directed intothe filter module. This aids in preventing the loss of oxygen from thesystem—subsequently enhancing oxygen entrainment efficiency.

FIGS. 37A to 37D show exemplary seals that may be used to seal betweenthe single manifold gases outlet 9019 and the filter extension duct,such as an O-ring seal 304651 (FIGS. 37A and 371), a grommet seal 304652(FIG. 37C), or a face seal 304653 (FIG. 37D).

With reference to FIGS. 47 and 48, the manifold outlet 12046 may beprovided with a filter 10246 c to prevent, or at least minimise,bacteria, dust, and particulates from entering the manifold. A situationthat may cause material to enter the manifold is when the filter moduleis disconnected from the apparatus, the valve module, or both. A similarfilter could be additionally or alternatively placed at the manifoldinlet for similar purposes.

In an embodiment, the filter 10246 c may be or comprise a sintered metalfilter. Examples of suitable sintered metals include copper, bronze, orsteel. Alternatively, the filter may be a ceramic or polymeric filter,which may be sintered filters. Sintered metal filters provide long termreliability, and due to the proximity to the oxygen supply source theresulting pressure drop would not be prohibitive.

FIG. 47 shows a seal 12046 a in the form of an O-ring between the filterextension duct 12046 and the filter and/or manifold outlet. Otherappropriate seals may be used, such as a grommet seal, or a face seal.Additionally, or alternatively, the filter extension duct could sealwith the manifold through an interference fit, as shown in FIG. 48, or atight clearance fit.

In addition to any of these embodiments, the filter could be sealed tothe manifold outlet by an O-ring seal, a grommet seal, a face seal,and/or any other suitable seal. Alternatively, the lower seal may not bepresent.

The valve carrier 9051 comprises a speaker housing 9065 and an audiospeaker 9066 located and retained in the speaker housing. The speaker isIn electronic communication with the control system of the apparatus 10.

One or more temperature sensor(s) is/are provided on or in the valvecarrier 9051, such as in the vicinity of the speaker. In someconfigurations, the temperature sensor(s) comprises a thermistor, adigital temperature sensor, or any other suitable type of temperaturesensor. The temperature sensor(s) provides ambient temperature feedbackto a controller of the apparatus, indicative of the ambient temperatureexternal to the apparatus 10. The temperature sensor(s) is/arepreferably positioned in a gases stream. For example, the temperaturesensor(s) may be positioned in the gas ambient air flow path.Additionally, or alternatively, the temperature sensor(s) is/arepositioned near the edge of the unit. These positions eliminate, or atleast reduce, the effect of the heat generated within the unit on thetemperature sensed by the temperature sensors and allows the temperaturesensor(s) to detect a temperature that is close to the ambienttemperature. In one embodiment, a temperature sensor is near the inlet.FIG. 52 shows two options for the position of the sensor, indicated byarrows. The arrow on the right indicates the temperature sensor beinglocated on an extension 10074 of a flexible PCB 10067, which isdescribed below. The apparatus may have one temperature sensorpositioned at one location, one temperature sensor at the otherlocation, or two temperature sensors: one positioned at each bothlocations. In other alternatives, the sensor or sensors may bepositioned in other locations on the apparatus.

The upper valve carrier part 9055 has the effect of ‘sandwiching’ thevalve 9003, valve manifold 9011, and speaker 9066 in place on the valvecarrier 9051. Specifically, the upper valve carrier part 9055 supportsthe valve 9003, valve manifold 9011 and speaker 9066 from above. Thisassists in the assembly of the valve module 9001 and in retaining allcomponents together as a complete module during transport. Sleeves 9060are provided in the upper carrier part to receive fasteners from sleeves9059 in the lower carrier part.

In some configurations, the upper valve carrier part 9055 and lowervalve carrier part 9053 may be integrally formed as a unitary item.

The valve module 9001 has an electrical connector to provide anelectrical connection between the valve module and the apparatus 10 fordelivering a flow of gas, to provide modularity of the valve module. Insome configurations, the electrical connector is in electric/electroniccommunication with the valve 9003, and the electrical connector isarranged or adapted to engage with a complementary connector in theapparatus 10 for delivering a flow of gas; for example by plugging intothe complementary connector. In some configurations, wires provide theelectrical/electronic communication between the valve and the electricalconnector. In some configurations, grommets provide a seal between thewires and an opening that the wires pass through, and shield the wiresfrom contact with the edges of the opening that the wires pass through.In the form shown, the upper valve carrier part 9055 has an electricalconnector, such as a PCB 9067, extending therethrough. The PCB 9067 ispart of the lower chassis 202 of the apparatus 10, and couples with aPCB edge connector In the valve carrier 9051 so that the PCB 9067 is inelectronic communication with the valve 9003, temperature sensor, andspeaker 9066, and so that the valve module 9001 and apparatus 10 are inelectronic communication. The PCB 9067 is orientated vertically.Alternatively, the PCB 9067 may be provided in the valve module, and thePCB may project from a housing of the valve carrier to engage with acomplementary edge connector internal to the apparatus 10, such that thevalve module 9001 and apparatus 10 control system are in electroniccommunication.

While the electrical connector is shown as being accessible from the topof the valve carrier, in some configurations, the electrical connectormay be positioned in, or accessible from, a top, side, or base of thevalve carrier.

FIGS. 43 to 45 show an alternative configuration of the valve module.Unless described below, the features, functionality, options, andadvantages are all as outlined above for the first valve moduleconfiguration above, and like reference numerals indicate like partswith 9000 added to each numeral.

In particular, this alternative embodiment has a flexible PCB 10067. Theflexible PCB 10067 is a ribbon having a width, a relatively thin depth,and a relatively long length. The flexible PCB 10067 is a flexibleplastic substrate, such as polyimide, and contains a plurality ofparallel tracks that electronically connect the components. The flexiblePCB 10067 is in electronic communication with the valve 10003,temperature sensor and speaker 10066, so that the valve module andapparatus 10 are in electronic communication.

The flexible PCB 10067 has two outwardly extending tabs 10068 thatelectronically connect to the speaker 10066. The flexible PCB 10067could have a differently shaped end to connect to the speaker 10066. Theshape of the end of the flexible PCB 10067 will be chosen or designeddepending on the shape of the speaker, other components, or thenecessary connection of the flexible PCB.

The end of the flexible PCB 10067 adjacent the speaker is oriented withthe width of the ribbon extending horizontally. Extending from thespeaker, the flexible PCB 10067 then twists from the horizontalorientation to a vertical orientation In which the width of the ribbonis now oriented vertically. The vertically oriented section of theflexible PCB 10067 is supported in stands 10076, 10077, and 10078 of thelower valve carrier part 10053. The flexible PCB 10067 is shaped withtwo steps, with ramps between the steps. The shape and orientation ofthe flexible PCB 10067 reduces the space required for the flexible PCB10067.

The next portion 10072 of the flexible PCB 10067 extends vertically;that is, the ribbon is oriented with the length extending vertically.This portion 10072 and has a slight twist. The end 10073 of the flexiblePCB 10067 electronically connects to the apparatus 10 control system.

The flexible PCB 10067 also includes an extension 10074 that connects tothe temperature sensor. The extension 10074 is an L-shaped extensionwith the width of the ribbon oriented horizontally. The shape andorientation of the extension 10074 will be chosen or designed dependingon the relative position of the components. The extension 10074 isoriented to lie horizontally and is supported by a stand of the lowervalve carrier part 10053.

The shape and configuration of the flexible PCB 10067 is chosen ordesigned to fit around the other components and to ensure the flexiblePCB 10067 is supported. It will be appreciated that the shape and/orconfiguration can be modified depending on the shape, size, and/ororientation of the other components.

FIG. 43 shows an alternative embodiment of the upper valve carrier part10055 having a spacer 10080 to assist with securing the speaker 10066rigidly. The spacer 10080 contacts the components above and prevents theupper valve carrier part 10055 from moving, such as flexing. Inparticular, the spacer 10080 extends upwardly from the upper valvecarrier part 10055. The spacer 10080 prevents, or at least substantiallyinhibits, the speaker 10066 from moving relative to the other componentsduring transport.

In some configurations, the location of the wires or flexible PCB mayresult in a grommet being located between the valve module 9001 and aremovable battery pack 13089, shown in FIG. 49. With reference to thegrommet 10079 in FIG. 44, the grommet 10079 engages the battery coverwhen assembled. During disassembly, the grommet 10079 will disengagewith whichever module is removed first. If the valve module 9001 isremoved first, the grommet 10079 will remain with the battery pack13089. In this case, the wires or flexible PCB will be pulled throughthe grommet 10079. When the device is reassembled, the wires or flexiblePCB strip will need to be pulled back through the grommet 10079. It ispreferable for the battery pack 13089 to be removed before the valvemodule 9001. To ensure disassembly is done in this order, the batterypack 13089 has a lip or small extension on the case that extends overthe valve module 9001. The lip prevents the valve module 9001 from beingremoved before the battery is removed.

FIGS. 52, and 56 to 58 show a variation of the embodiment of FIGS. 43 to45. In this embodiment, the swivel connector is a ball joint 14005. Asdescribed in relation to other embodiments, the swivel connector is aball joint for providing rotation in multiple directions. In thisembodiment, the ball joint 14005 will pivot about a single axis ofrotation. This arrangement provides a tight fit between the valvecarrier and the swivel connector regardless of the position of theswivel connector. This prevents, or at least substantially inhibitsoxygen from leaking into the underside of the apparatus, and insteaddirects it out around the swivel connector. The valve carrier has a cupshaped surface 14006 a to receive the ball of the swivel joint. In thisembodiment, ambient air is drawn through one or more gaps that occurwhen the valve carrier is assembled. This is shown in FIG. 57.

With reference to FIG. 34, the top panel further includes anintermediary filter clip 9074. Pressing the filter module release tab9071, located on the lower part 9053 of the valve carrier, displaces theintermediary filter clip 9074 to clear the projection on the filterengagement tab 3071 (FIGS. 38 and 39), and enables the filter 3001 to bewithdrawn from the apparatus housing.

The filter module engagement tab 3071 includes an aperture therethrough.The intermediary filter clip 9074 (see FIG. 34) includes an aperturewith an internal projection.

When the intermediary filter clip 9074 is depressed, the filter moduleengagement tab 3071 is allowed to pass into the aperture of theintermediary filter clip 9074. When the intermediary filter is released(i.e. not depressed), the internal projection of the intermediary filterclip passes through and engages the aperture in the filter moduleengagement tab 3071.

This secures the filter module 9001 in place. This prevents accidentalremoval in the event that a tube attached to alternative gas supplyconnector 1039/3039 is pulled.

In this configuration, oxygen entrainment in the air flow is enhanced bythe filter extension duct receiving oxygen from the valve assembly.

Portion 9035 of the swivel connector protrudes from the apparatushousing near the point at which the apparatus 10 is mounted to a polestand. The position of the swivel connector, therefore, enablespositioning of the gas supply line such that it may run substantiallyadjacent the pole of the pole mount. This may avoid the gas supply lineextending substantially away from the pole stand such that it may catchor drag on nearby objects. This may also avoid kinking of the gas supplyline.

Because the gases inlets 4033, 5015, 6015, 7033, 8033, 9033 of the valvemodules 4001, 5001, 6001, 7001, 8001, 9001 can move relative to thehousing of the apparatus 10, the apparatus 10 can be placed (for exampleon a surface or pole mount or bracket) without kinking or damaging acoupled gases line, which could compromise the gas supply to a patient.This provides enhanced flexibility of positioning of the apparatus.

The valve modules and filter modules described herein are an opensystem—as a result, some oxygen may be lost, or leak, from the system.The apparatus 10 is advantageously capable of delivering approximately100% concentration of oxygen to a patient where required. The apparatus10 using the valve modules and filter modules may be able to delivergases with between about 21% and about 100% oxygen concentration to apatient, as required. As the filter is open to ambient air, oxygen fromthe valve manifold displaces air from the system. For example, a greatersupply of oxygen displaces a greater amount of air, resulting in agreater proportion of oxygen entering the system.

The filter modules and valve modules described herein may providevarying gas flow paths for the apparatus. For example, the valve modulemay control the flow of oxygen entering the gas flow path of theapparatus, via the valve module and filter module. Alternatively, thevalve module may be bypassed by means of direct connection of analternative oxygen source to the filter module by the firstsub-compartment gases inlet (inlet 1011 of FIG. 10 for example). Thismay be practical in circumstances where a user may wish to manuallyadjust the oxygen supply (i.e. such as by the wall supply rotameter).

It will be appreciated that the filter modules and the valve modulesdescribed herein may be used separately in apparatuses for delivering aflow of gas. Alternatively, the filter and the valve module may be usedtogether as a filer and valve assembly for improved functionality.

In the configurations shown, the apparatus 10 receives oxygen by atleast one of the following:

via the valve module (for automatic oxygen regulation by the apparatus),or

via the alternative gases inlet provided on the top of the filter(allowing attachment of a manually adjustable oxygen supply—i.e. such asby the wall supply rotameter).

A further alternate flow path configuration is envisaged in which eithera source of pressurised oxygen or a manually adjustable oxygen supplyconnects to a single gases inlet via the valve module 4001, 5001, 6001,7001, 8001, 9001. As a result, all oxygen supply would pass through thevalve module. Such a configuration is shown schematically in FIG. 42.

In this configuration, where attachment of a manually adjusted oxygensupply 21 is required, the apparatus is set to a ‘manual supply’ mode.In this mode, the oxygen valve is held open In a non-active,non-regulating, state—allowing oxygen to pass through freely.

Alternatively, the valve employed in the valve module could be of the‘normally open’ type. When the apparatus is set to a ‘manual supply’mode, the valve is simply powered off—allowing oxygen to pass throughfreely.

The manually adjusted oxygen supply 21 may be manually controlled by auser via an external flow controller 22, such as a wall supply rotameteror gas tank valve for example.

The configuration of FIG. 42 eliminates the separate alternative oxygeninlet, which bypasses the valve. As a result, the filter body would onlyrequire a single, main chamber and the top panel could be more readilyintegrally mouldable with the filter unit—thereby simplifyingmanufacture.

This configuration also provides the apparatus 10 a capacity to shut-offor control the manually adjusted oxygen supply in exceptional or unsafecircumstances—such as excessive pressure or If the patient was to becomehyperoxic (excess blood oxygen retention).

The apparatus 10 may be provided with or without the valve module 4001,5001, 6001, 7001, 8001, 9001. For example, for some home useapplications, the user may not require supplemental oxygen, but maybenefit from high flow therapy. For such applications, the valve modulehousing 306 of the apparatus 10 may be provided with a cover thatambient air can pass through (via apertures) or around, or may beuncovered. This would reduce the overall cost of the apparatus.

With that configuration, if supplemental manually adjusted oxygen isrequired, that can be connected via the alternative gas supply inlet1011, 2011, 3011 on the top of the filter 1001, 2001, 3001, 11001.

The various configurations described are exemplary configurations only.Any one or more features from any of the configurations may be used incombination with any one or more features from any of the otherconfigurations.

For example, the swivel connector used in the valve module may haveadditional functionality. In some configurations, the swivel connectormay be arranged to swivel about more than one axis; and may for examplehave two adjacent swivel connection portions with swivel axes that aretransverse to each other, so that the gases inlet of the swivelconnector can rotate around the two axes. In some configurations, theswivel connector may comprise a ball and socket arrangement or similar,to enable the gases inlet of the swivel connector to rotate insubstantially any direction. In some configurations, the swivelconnector may be arranged to provide both swivelling and translationalmovement; so that the gases inlet of the swivel connector may bothswivel about one or more axes and may also travel linearly for example.This may be practical for translating the gases inlet from one portionof the apparatus to another, such as from one side of the apparatus tothe other of the apparatus for example. In some configurations, thegases inlet may be arranged to translate instead of rotate.

As another example, while the motor and/or sensor sub-assembly recess isdescribed as being in the underside of the main housing, it couldalternatively be in a rear, side, front, or top of the housing. Withsuch a variant, the air and/or oxygen inlets may also be positioneddifferently as required.

As another example, rather than the liquid chamber and chamber bay beingconfigured so that the liquid chamber is inserted into and removed fromthe chamber bay from a front of the housing, the configuration could besuch that the liquid chamber is inserted into and removed from thechamber bay from a side, rear, or top of the housing.

As another example, while the filter modules are described as beinginserted into the housing from above and the valve modules inserted intothe housing from below, either or both of those components could beinserted Into any suitable part of the housing, such as an upper part,lower part, side part, front part, or rear part.

The valve modules may be used together with the filter modules as afilter and valve assembly. Alternatively, only the filter module may beused in an apparatus or only the valve module may be used in anapparatus. For example, the valve module may not be used where a userdoes not require supplemental oxygen, but would still benefit from highflow therapy. The user may still have the option of connecting anexternal oxygen supply by means of direct connection to the filtermodule.

The filter module and valve module are described with reference to aflow therapy apparatus that is capable of delivering heated andhumidified gases to a patient or user. The apparatus may be suitable fortreating chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The apparatus maybe configured to deliver gases to a patient interface at a high flowrate (high flow therapy), particularly nasal high flow therapy.

Alternatively, the filter module and/or valve module may be used in anapparatus for a different purpose. The apparatus may be a high flowtherapy apparatus, or may be a low flow therapy apparatus. The featuresmay also be provided in an apparatus for providing continuous positiveairway pressure (CPAP), which may deliver gases (humidified orotherwise) at positive pressure.

The filter module and/or valve module may alternatively be used with anapparatus that does not require a humidifier and therefore does notrequire the liquid chamber 300 or chamber bay 108 features. For example,it will be appreciated that the configuration that isolates the motorand gas flow path from the electrical and electronic components hasbroad applications in other types of gas delivery apparatuses.

The ‘flow therapy apparatus’ language is intended to cover all suchvariants.

Reference to any prior art in this specification is not, and should notbe taken as, an acknowledgement or any form of suggestion that the priorart forms part of the common general knowledge in the field of endeavourin any country in the world.

Where reference is used herein to directional terms such as ‘up’,‘down’, ‘forward’, ‘rearward’, ‘horizontal’, ‘vertical’ etc, those termsrefer to when the apparatus is in a typical in-use position, and areused to show and/or describe relative directions or orientations.

Although the present disclosure has been described in terms of certainembodiments, other embodiments apparent to those of ordinary skill inthe art also are within the scope of this disclosure. Thus, variouschanges and modifications may be made without departing from the spiritand scope of the disclosure. For instance, various components may berepositioned as desired. Features from any of the described embodimentsmay be combined with each other and/or an apparatus may comprise one,more, or all of the features of the above described embodiments.Moreover, not all of the features, aspects and advantages arenecessarily required to practice the present disclosure. Accordingly,the scope of the present disclosure is intended to be defined only bythe claims that follow.

1. (canceled)
 2. A valve module for an apparatus for delivering a flowof gas, the valve module comprising: a flow control valve, wherein thevalve is arranged to control a flow of gas; a valve manifold comprisinga valve manifold gases inlet and at least one valve manifold gasesoutlet; a swivel connector with a connector gases inlet; a gases supplyline; wherein the connector is arranged to provide a fluid connectionbetween the gas supply line and the valve manifold gases inlet; andwherein the connector gases inlet is oriented substantially transverselyrelative to a longitudinal axis of the valve manifold, the connectorgases inlet arranged to rotate about the longitudinal axis of the valvemanifold.
 3. The valve module of claim 2, wherein the connector gasesinlet is movable relative to the valve manifold.
 4. The valve module ofclaim 2, wherein the flow control valve is sealingly engaged with thevalve manifold.
 5. The valve module of claim 2, wherein the flow controlvalve is arranged to control a flow of gas from the valve manifold gasesinlet to the at least one valve manifold gases outlet.
 6. The valvemodule of claim 2, wherein the valve manifold has a shape that iscomplementary to the shape of the flow control valve.
 7. The valvemodule of claim 2, wherein the valve manifold comprises a plurality ofvalve manifold gases outlets that are radially located about the valvemanifold.
 8. The valve module of claim 2, wherein the connector gasesinlet extends in a substantially perpendicular direction relative to thelongitudinal axis of the valve manifold.
 9. The valve module of claim 2,wherein the valve manifold gases inlet is axially located at or towardan end of the valve manifold.
 10. The valve module of claim 2, whereinthe connector gases inlet is rotatable through up to 190 degrees aboutthe longitudinal axis of the valve manifold.
 11. The valve module ofclaim 2, wherein the valve module is arranged to directly couple with afilter module to provide the gas flow path from the valve module to thefilter module.
 12. A valve module for an apparatus for delivering a flowof gas, the valve module comprising: a flow control valve, wherein thevalve is arranged to control a flow of gas; a valve manifold comprisinga valve manifold gases inlet and at least one valve manifold gasesoutlet; a connector with a connector gases inlet, wherein the connectoris configured to rotate in substantially any direction relative to thevalve manifold via a ball and socket arrangement; a gases supply line;and wherein the connector is arranged to provide a fluid connectionbetween the gas supply line and the valve manifold gases inlet.
 13. Thevalve module of claim 12, wherein the connector gases inlet is movablerelative to the valve manifold.
 14. The valve module of claim 12,wherein the flow control valve is sealingly engaged with the valvemanifold.
 15. The valve module of claim 12, wherein the flow controlvalve is arranged to control a flow of gas from the valve manifold gasesinlet to the at least one valve manifold gases outlet.
 16. The valvemodule of claim 12, wherein the valve manifold has a shape that iscomplementary to the shape of the flow control valve.
 17. The valvemodule of claim 12, wherein the valve manifold comprises a plurality ofvalve manifold gases outlets that are radially located about the valvemanifold.
 18. The valve module of claim 12, wherein the connector gasesinlet extends in a substantially perpendicular direction relative to thelongitudinal axis of the valve manifold.
 19. The valve module of claim12, wherein the valve manifold gases inlet is axially located at ortoward an end of the valve manifold.
 20. The valve module of claim 12,wherein the connector gases inlet is rotatable through up to 190 degreesabout the longitudinal axis of the valve manifold.
 21. The valve moduleof claim 12, wherein the valve module is arranged to directly couplewith a filter module to provide the gas flow path from the valve moduleto the filter module.